(May 18, 2001) The House passed a bill making technical adjustments to laws regarding child support payments May 17.

HF1697/ SF1944*, sponsored in the House by Rep. Steve Smith (R-Mound), passed 130-0.

The bill makes a knowing failure to pay child support a misdemeanor, punishable by a sentence of imprisonment for not more than 90 days or to a fine of not more than $700, or both. Continued failure between 90 and 180 days or failing to pay an amount equal to between six and nine months would constitute a gross misdemeanor, which carries up to year's imprisonment and a fine of up to $3,000.

A felony charge would kick in after 180 days or above nine months worth of arrearages. This felony would be punishable by up to two years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000.

The bill also requires agencies administering child support payments to "make reasonable efforts to ensure that automated enforcement remedies take into consideration the time periods allowed" for parents obliged to make payments.

The bill passed the Senate May 10 by a 61-0 vote. Sen. David Knutson (R-Burnsville) sponsored it there. It will now go to the governor.

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