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SB 15

Child Support - Driver's License Suspension for Arrearages and Court Orders

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Ron Watson

Maryland SB 15 authorizes driver's license suspension for child support arrearages and non-compliance with court orders to enforce payment obligations.

Third Reading Passed
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 15

Legislative bill overview

SB 15 authorizes Maryland to suspend driver's licenses for individuals who fall behind on court-ordered child support payments or fail to comply with child support court orders. The bill creates a mechanism for the state to use license suspension as an enforcement tool to encourage compliance with support obligations.

Why is this important

Child support enforcement directly affects the financial stability of custodial parents and children who depend on these payments. License suspension is a coercive enforcement method that can significantly impact a person's ability to work, travel, and conduct daily life—potentially creating a counterproductive cycle if it prevents someone from earning income to pay arrearages.

Potential points of contention

  • Effectiveness vs. harm trade-off: Suspending licenses may prevent non-compliant parents from working or earning income needed to pay arrearages, potentially worsening rather than improving collection outcomes
  • Burden on vulnerable populations: Lower-income obligors may face disproportionate hardship, raising fairness concerns about whether license suspension adequately distinguishes between inability and unwillingness to pay
  • Due process protections: Questions about adequate notice, hearing opportunities, and appeal mechanisms before suspension takes effect, particularly for those facing financial hardship or job loss

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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