Part D—Child Support and Establishment of Paternity
§651. Authorization of appropriations
For the purpose of enforcing the support obligations owed by noncustodial parents to their children and the spouse (or former spouse) with whom such children are living, locating noncustodial parents, establishing paternity, obtaining child and spousal support, and assuring that assistance in obtaining support will be available under this part to all children (whether or not eligible for assistance under a State program funded under part A) for whom such assistance is requested, there is hereby authorized to be appropriated for each fiscal year a sum sufficient to carry out the purposes of this part.
(Aug. 14, 1935, ch. 531, title IV, §451, as added Pub. L. 93–647, §101(a), Jan. 4, 1975, 88 Stat. 2351; amended Pub. L. 97–35, title XXIII, §2332(a), Aug. 13, 1981, 95 Stat. 861; Pub. L. 98–378, §2, Aug. 16, 1984, 98 Stat. 1305; Pub. L. 104–193, title I, §108(c)(1), title III, §395(d)(1)(A), Aug. 22, 1996, 110 Stat. 2165, 2259.)
Editorial Notes
Amendments
1996—Pub. L. 104–193, §395(d)(1)(A), substituted "noncustodial" for "absent" in two places.
Pub. L. 104–193, §108(c)(1), substituted "assistance under a State program funded under part A" for "aid under part A".
1984—Pub. L. 98–378 substituted "obtaining child and spousal support, and assuring that assistance in obtaining support will be available under this part to all children (whether or not eligible for aid under part A) for whom such assistance is requested," for "and obtaining child and spousal support,".
1981—Pub. L. 97–35 substituted "children and the spouse (or former spouse) with whom such children are living" for "children" and "child and spousal support" for "child support".
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 1996 Amendment
Amendment by section 108(c)(1) of Pub. L. 104–193 effective July 1, 1997, with transition rules relating to State options to accelerate such date, rules relating to claims, actions, and proceedings commenced before such date, rules relating to closing out of accounts for terminated or substantially modified programs and continuance in office of Assistant Secretary for Family Support, and provisions relating to termination of entitlement under AFDC program, see section 116 of Pub. L. 104–193, as amended, set out as an Effective Date note under section 601 of this title.
For effective date of amendment by section 395(d)(1)(A) of Pub. L. 104–193, see section 395(a)–(c) of Pub. L. 104–193, set out as a note under section 654 of this title.
Effective Date of 1981 Amendment
Pub. L. 97–35, title XXIII, §2336, Aug. 13, 1981, 95 Stat. 864, provided that:
"(a) Except as otherwise specifically provided in the preceding sections of this chapter [sections 2331–2335 of Pub. L. 97–35] or in subsection (b), the provisions of this chapter and the amendments and repeals made by this chapter [amending this section, sections 652, 653, 654, 657, and 664 of this title, and sections 6305 and 6402 of Title 26, Internal Revenue Code] shall become effective on October 1, 1981.
"(b) If a State agency administering a plan approved under part D of title IV of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 651 et seq.] demonstrates, to the satisfaction of the Secretary of Health and Human Services, that it cannot, by reason of State law, comply with the requirements of an amendment made by this chapter to which the effective date specified in subsection (a) applies, the Secretary may prescribe that, in the case of such State, the amendment will become effective beginning with the first month beginning after the close of the first session of such State's legislature ending on or after October 1, 1981. For purposes of the preceding sentence, the term 'session of a State's legislature' includes any regular, special, budget, or other session of a State legislature."
Effective Date
Pub. L. 93–647, §101(f), Jan. 4, 1975, 88 Stat. 2361, as amended by Pub. L. 94–46, §2, June 30, 1975, 89 Stat. 245, provided that: "The amendments made by this section [enacting this part and section 6305 of Title 26, Internal Revenue Code, amending sections 602, 603, 604, 606, and 1306 of this title, repealing section 610 of this title, and enacting provisions set out as notes under this section and section 602 of this title] shall become effective on August 1, 1975, except that section 459 of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 659], as added by subsection (a) of this section shall become effective on January 1, 1975, and subsection (e) of this section [enacting provisions set out as a note under this section] shall become effective upon the date of the enactment of this Act [Jan. 4, 1975]."
Short Title
This part is popularly known as the "Child Support Enforcement Act".
Study on Effectiveness of Enforcement of Medical Support by State Agencies
Pub. L. 105–200, title IV, §401(a), July 16, 1998, 112 Stat. 659, directed the Secretary of Health and Human Services and the Secretary of Labor to jointly establish a Medical Child Support Working Group for the purpose of identifying impediments to the effective enforcement of medical support by State agencies administering the programs operated pursuant to part D of title IV of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 651 et seq.), required the Working Group to submit to the Secretaries a report containing recommendations not later than 18 months after July 16, 1998, required the Secretaries to submit a report to each House of the Congress regarding the recommendations not later than 2 months after receipt of report from the Working Group, and provided for the termination of the Working Group 30 days after the date of the issuance of its report.
Promulgation of National Medical Support Notice
Pub. L. 105–200, title IV, §401(b), July 16, 1998, 112 Stat. 660, directed the Secretary of Health and Human Services and the Secretary of Labor to jointly develop and promulgate by regulation a National Medical Support Notice, to be issued by States as a means of enforcing the health care coverage provisions in a child support order; required interim regulations to be issued not later than 10 months after July 16, 1998 (such regulations were issued on Nov. 15, 1999; see 64 F.R. 62054); and required final regulations to be issued not later than 1 year after the issuance of the interim regulations (such regulations were issued on Dec. 27, 2000; see 65 F.R. 82128).
Authorization of Appropriations
Pub. L. 93–647, §101(e), Jan. 4, 1975, 88 Stat. 2361, provided that: "There are authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare [now Health and Human Services] such sums as may be necessary to plan and prepare for the implementation of the program established by this section [enacting this part and section 6305 of Title 26, Internal Revenue Code]."
§652. Duties of Secretary
(a) Establishment of separate organizational unit; duties
The Secretary shall establish, within the Department of Health and Human Services a separate organizational unit, under the direction of a designee of the Secretary, who shall report directly to the Secretary and who shall—
(1) establish such standards for State programs for locating noncustodial parents, establishing paternity, and obtaining child support and support for the spouse (or former spouse) with whom the noncustodial parent's child is living as he determines to be necessary to assure that such programs will be effective;
(2) establish minimum organizational and staffing requirements for State units engaged in carrying out such programs under plans approved under this part;
(3) review and approve State plans for such programs;
(4)(A) review data and calculations transmitted by State agencies pursuant to section 654(15)(B) of this title on State program accomplishments with respect to performance indicators for purposes of subsection (g) of this section and section 658a of this title;
(B) review annual reports submitted pursuant to section 654(15)(A) of this title and, as appropriate, provide to the State comments, recommendations for additional or alternative corrective actions, and technical assistance; and
(C) conduct audits, in accordance with the Government auditing standards of the Comptroller General of the United States—
(i) at least once every 3 years (or more frequently, in the case of a State which fails to meet the requirements of this part concerning performance standards and reliability of program data) to assess the completeness, reliability, and security of the data and the accuracy of the reporting systems used in calculating performance indicators under subsection (g) of this section and section 658a of this title;
(ii) of the adequacy of financial management of the State program operated under the State plan approved under this part, including assessments of—
(I) whether Federal and other funds made available to carry out the State program are being appropriately expended, and are properly and fully accounted for; and
(II) whether collections and disbursements of support payments are carried out correctly and are fully accounted for; and
(iii) for such other purposes as the Secretary may find necessary;
(5) assist States in establishing adequate reporting procedures and maintain records of the operations of programs established pursuant to this part in each State, and establish procedures to be followed by States for collecting and reporting information required to be provided under this part, and establish uniform definitions (including those necessary to enable the measurement of State compliance with the requirements of this part relating to expedited processes) to be applied in following such procedures;
(6) maintain records of all amounts collected and disbursed under programs established pursuant to the provisions of this part and of the costs incurred in collecting such amounts;
(7) provide technical assistance to the States to help them establish effective systems for collecting child and spousal support and establishing paternity, and specify the minimum requirements of an affidavit to be used for the voluntary acknowledgment of paternity which shall include the social security number of each parent and, after consultation with the States, other common elements as determined by such designee;
(8) receive applications from States for permission to utilize the courts of the United States to enforce court orders for support against noncustodial parents and, upon a finding that (A) another State has not undertaken to enforce the court order of the originating State against the noncustodial parent within a reasonable time, and (B) that utilization of the Federal courts is the only reasonable method of enforcing such order, approve such applications;
(9) operate the Federal Parent Locator Service established by section 653 of this title;
(10) not later than three months after the end of each fiscal year, beginning with the year 1977, submit to the Congress a full and complete report on all activities undertaken pursuant to the provisions of this part, which report shall include, but not be limited to, the following:
(A) total program costs and collections set forth in sufficient detail to show the cost to the States and the Federal Government, the distribution of collections to families, State and local governmental units, and the Federal Government; and an identification of the financial impact of the provisions of this part, including—
(i) the total amount of child support payments collected as a result of services furnished during the fiscal year to individuals receiving services under this part;
(ii) the cost to the States and to the Federal Government of so furnishing the services; and
(iii) the number of cases involving families—
(I) who became ineligible for assistance under State programs funded under part A during a month in the fiscal year; and
(II) with respect to whom a child support payment was received in the month;
(B) costs and staff associated with the Office of Child Support Enforcement;
(C) the following data, separately stated for cases where the child is receiving assistance under a State program funded under part A (or foster care maintenance payments under part E), or formerly received such assistance or payments and the State is continuing to collect support assigned to it pursuant to section 608(a)(3) of this title or under section 671(a)(17) or 1396k of this title, and for all other cases under this part:
(i) the total number of cases in which a support obligation has been established in the fiscal year for which the report is submitted;
(ii) the total number of cases in which a support obligation has been established;
(iii) the number of cases in which support was collected during the fiscal year;
(iv) the total amount of support collected during such fiscal year and distributed as current support;
(v) the total amount of support collected during such fiscal year and distributed as arrearages;
(vi) the total amount of support due and unpaid for all fiscal years; and
(vii) the number of child support cases filed in each State in such fiscal year, and the amount of the collections made in each State in such fiscal year, on behalf of children residing in another State or against parents residing in another State;
(D) the status of all State plans under this part as of the end of the fiscal year last ending before the report is submitted, together with an explanation of any problems which are delaying or preventing approval of State plans under this part;
(E) data, by State, on the use of the Federal Parent Locator Service, and the number of locate requests submitted without the noncustodial parent's social security account number;
(F) the number of cases, by State, in which an applicant for or recipient of assistance under a State program funded under part A has refused to cooperate in identifying and locating the noncustodial parent and the number of cases in which refusal so to cooperate is based on good cause (as determined by the State);
(G) data, by State, on use of the Internal Revenue Service for collections, the number of court orders on which collections were made, the number of paternity determinations made and the number of parents located, in sufficient detail to show the cost and benefits to the States and to the Federal Government;
(H) the major problems encountered which have delayed or prevented implementation of the provisions of this part during the fiscal year last ending prior to the submission of such report; and
(I) compliance, by State, with the standards established pursuant to subsections (h) and (i); and
(11) not later than October 1, 1996, after consulting with the State directors of programs under this part, promulgate forms to be used by States in interstate cases for—
(A) collection of child support through income withholding;
(B) imposition of liens; and
(C) administrative subpoenas.
(b) Certification of child support obligations to Secretary of the Treasury for collection
The Secretary shall, upon the request of any State having in effect a State plan approved under this part, certify to the Secretary of the Treasury for collection pursuant to the provisions of section 6305 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 the amount of any child support obligation (including any support obligation with respect to the parent who is living with the child and receiving assistance under the State program funded under part A) which is assigned to such State or is undertaken to be collected by such State pursuant to section 654(4) of this title. No amount may be certified for collection under this subsection except the amount of the delinquency under a court or administrative order for support and upon a showing by the State that such State has made diligent and reasonable efforts to collect such amounts utilizing its own collection mechanisms, and upon an agreement that the State will reimburse the Secretary of the Treasury for any costs involved in making the collection. All reimbursements shall be credited to the appropriation accounts which bore all or part of the costs involved in making the collections. The Secretary after consultation with the Secretary of the Treasury may, by regulation, establish criteria for accepting amounts for collection and for making certification under this subsection including imposing such limitations on the frequency of making such certifications under this subsection.
(c) Payment of child support collections to States
The Secretary of the Treasury shall from time to time pay to each State for distribution in accordance with the provisions of section 657 of this title the amount of each collection made on behalf of such State pursuant to subsection (b).
(d) Child support management information system
(1) Except as provided in paragraph (3), the Secretary shall not approve the initial and annually updated advance automated data processing planning document, referred to in section 654(16) of this title, unless he finds that such document, when implemented, will generally carry out the objectives of the management system referred to in such subsection, and such document—
(A) provides for the conduct of, and reflects the results of, requirements analysis studies, which include consideration of the program mission, functions, organization, services, constraints, and current support, of, in, or relating to, such system,
(B) contains a description of the proposed management system referred to in section 654(16) of this title, including a description of information flows, input data, and output reports and uses,
(C) sets forth the security and interface requirements to be employed in such management system,
(D) describes the projected resource requirements for staff and other needs, and the resources available or expected to be available to meet such requirements,
(E) contains an implementation plan and backup procedures to handle possible failures,
(F) contains a summary of proposed improvement of such management system in terms of qualitative and quantitative benefits, and
(G) provides such other information as the Secretary determines under regulation is necessary.
(2)(A) The Secretary shall through the separate organizational unit established pursuant to subsection (a), on a continuing basis, review, assess, and inspect the planning, design, and operation of, management information systems referred to in section 654(16) of this title, with a view to determining whether, and to what extent, such systems meet and continue to meet requirements imposed under paragraph (1) and the conditions specified under section 654(16) of this title.
(B) If the Secretary finds with respect to any statewide management information system referred to in section 654(16) of this title that there is a failure substantially to comply with criteria, requirements, and other undertakings, prescribed by the advance automated data processing planning document theretofore approved by the Secretary with respect to such system, then the Secretary shall suspend his approval of such document until there is no longer any such failure of such system to comply with such criteria, requirements, and other undertakings so prescribed.
(3) The Secretary may waive any requirement of paragraph (1) or any condition specified under section 654(16) of this title, and shall waive the single statewide system requirement under sections 654(16) and 654a of this title, with respect to a State if—
(A) the State demonstrates to the satisfaction of the Secretary that the State has or can develop an alternative system or systems that enable the State—
(i) for purposes of section 609(a)(8) of this title, to achieve the paternity establishment percentages (as defined in subsection (g)(2)) and other performance measures that may be established by the Secretary;
(ii) to submit data under section 654(15)(B) of this title that is complete and reliable;
(iii) to substantially comply with the requirements of this part; and
(iv) in the case of a request to waive the single statewide system requirement, to—
(I) meet all functional requirements of sections 654(16) and 654a of this title;
(II) ensure that calculation of distributions meets the requirements of section 657 of this title and accounts for distributions to children in different families or in different States or sub-State jurisdictions, and for distributions to other States;
(III) ensure that there is only one point of contact in the State which provides seamless case processing for all interstate case processing and coordinated, automated intrastate case management;
(IV) ensure that standardized data elements, forms, and definitions are used throughout the State;
(V) complete the alternative system in no more time than it would take to complete a single statewide system that meets such requirement; and
(VI) process child support cases as quickly, efficiently, and effectively as such cases would be processed through a single statewide system that meets such requirement;
(B)(i) the waiver meets the criteria of paragraphs (1), (2), and (3) of section 1315(c) of this title; or
(ii) the State provides assurances to the Secretary that steps will be taken to otherwise improve the State's child support enforcement program; and
(C) in the case of a request to waive the single statewide system requirement, the State has submitted to the Secretary separate estimates of the total cost of a single statewide system that meets such requirement, and of any such alternative system or systems, which shall include estimates of the cost of developing and completing the system and of operating and maintaining the system for 5 years, and the Secretary has agreed with the estimates.
(e) Technical assistance to States
The Secretary shall provide such technical assistance to States as he determines necessary to assist States to plan, design, develop, or install and provide for the security of, the management information systems referred to in section 654(16) of this title.
(f) Regulations
The Secretary shall issue regulations to require that State agencies administering the child support enforcement program under this part enforce medical support included as part of a child support order whenever health care coverage is available to the noncustodial parent at a reasonable cost. A State agency administering the program under this part may enforce medical support against a custodial parent if health care coverage is available to the custodial parent at a reasonable cost, notwithstanding any other provision of this part. Such regulation shall also provide for improved information exchange between such State agencies and the State agencies administering the State medicaid programs under subchapter XIX with respect to the availability of health insurance coverage. For purposes of this part, the term "medical support" may include health care coverage, such as coverage under a health insurance plan (including payment of costs of premiums, co-payments, and deductibles) and payment for medical expenses incurred on behalf of a child.
(g) Performance standards for State paternity establishment programs
(1) A State's program under this part shall be found, for purposes of section 609(a)(8) of this title, not to have complied substantially with the requirements of this part unless, for any fiscal year beginning on or after October 1, 1994, its paternity establishment percentage for such fiscal year is based on reliable data and (rounded to the nearest whole percentage point) equals or exceeds—
(A) 90 percent;
(B) for a State with a paternity establishment percentage of not less than 75 percent but less than 90 percent for such fiscal year, the paternity establishment percentage of the State for the immediately preceding fiscal year plus 2 percentage points;
(C) for a State with a paternity establishment percentage of not less than 50 percent but less than 75 percent for such fiscal year, the paternity establishment percentage of the State for the immediately preceding fiscal year plus 3 percentage points;
(D) for a State with a paternity establishment percentage of not less than 45 percent but less than 50 percent for such fiscal year, the paternity establishment percentage of the State for the immediately preceding fiscal year plus 4 percentage points;
(E) for a State with a paternity establishment percentage of not less than 40 percent but less than 45 percent for such fiscal year, the paternity establishment percentage of the State for the immediately preceding fiscal year plus 5 percentage points; or
(F) for a State with a paternity establishment percentage of less than 40 percent for such fiscal year, the paternity establishment percentage of the State for the immediately preceding fiscal year plus 6 percentage points.
In determining compliance under this section, a State may use as its paternity establishment percentage either the State's IV–D paternity establishment percentage (as defined in paragraph (2)(A)) or the State's statewide paternity establishment percentage (as defined in paragraph (2)(B)).
(2) For purposes of this section—
(A) the term "IV–D paternity establishment percentage" means, with respect to a State for a fiscal year, the ratio (expressed as a percentage) that the total number of children—
(i) who have been born out of wedlock,
(ii)(I) except as provided in the last sentence of this paragraph, with respect to whom assistance is being provided under the State program funded under part A in the fiscal year or, at the option of the State, as of the end of such year, or (II) with respect to whom services are being provided under the State's plan approved under this part in the fiscal year or, at the option of the State, as of the end of such year pursuant to an application submitted under section 654(4)(A)(ii) of this title, and
(iii) the paternity of whom has been established or acknowledged,
bears to the total number of children born out of wedlock and (except as provided in such last sentence) with respect to whom assistance was being provided under the State program funded under part A as of the end of the preceding fiscal year or with respect to whom services were being provided under the State's plan approved under this part as of the end of the preceding fiscal year pursuant to an application submitted under section 654(4)(A)(ii) of this title;
(B) the term "statewide paternity establishment percentage" means, with respect to a State for a fiscal year, the ratio (expressed as a percentage) that the total number of minor children—
(i) who have been born out of wedlock, and
(ii) the paternity of whom has been established or acknowledged during the fiscal year,
bears to the total number of children born out of wedlock during the preceding fiscal year; and
(C) the term "reliable data" means the most recent data available which are found by the Secretary to be reliable for purposes of this section.
For purposes of subparagraphs (A) and (B), the total number of children shall not include any child with respect to whom assistance is being provided under the State program funded under part A by reason of the death of a parent unless paternity is established for such child or any child with respect to whom an applicant or recipient is found by the State to qualify for a good cause or other exception to cooperation pursuant to section 654(29) of this title.
(3)(A) The Secretary may modify the requirements of this subsection to take into account such additional variables as the Secretary identifies (including the percentage of children in a State who are born out of wedlock or for whom support has not been established) that affect the ability of a State to meet the requirements of this subsection.
(B) The Secretary shall submit an annual report to the Congress that sets forth the data upon which the paternity establishment percentages for States for a fiscal year are based, lists any additional variables the Secretary has identified under subparagraph (A), and describes State performance in establishing paternity.
(h) Prompt State response to requests for child support assistance
The standards required by subsection (a)(1) shall include standards establishing time limits governing the period or periods within which a State must accept and respond to requests (from States, jurisdictions thereof, or individuals who apply for services furnished by the State agency under this part or with respect to whom an assignment pursuant to section 608(a)(3) of this title is in effect) for assistance in establishing and enforcing support orders, including requests to locate noncustodial parents, establish paternity, and initiate proceedings to establish and collect child support awards.
(i) Prompt State distribution of amounts collected as child support
The standards required by subsection (a)(1) shall include standards establishing time limits governing the period or periods within which a State must distribute, in accordance with section 657 of this title, amounts collected as child support pursuant to the State's plan approved under this part.
(j) Training of Federal and State staff, research and demonstration programs, and special projects of regional or national significance
Out of any money in the Treasury of the United States not otherwise appropriated, there is hereby appropriated to the Secretary for each fiscal year an amount equal to 1 percent of the total amount paid to the Federal Government pursuant to a plan approved under this part during the immediately preceding fiscal year (as determined on the basis of the most recent reliable data available to the Secretary as of the end of the third calendar quarter following the end of such preceding fiscal year) or the amount appropriated under this paragraph 1 for fiscal year 2002, whichever is greater, which shall be available for use by the Secretary, either directly or through grants, contracts, or interagency agreements, for—
(1) information dissemination and technical assistance to States, training of State and Federal staff, staffing studies, and related activities needed to improve programs under this part (including technical assistance concerning State automated systems required by this part); and
(2) research, demonstration, and special projects of regional or national significance relating to the operation of State programs under this part.
The amount appropriated under this subsection shall remain available until expended.
(k) Denial of passports for nonpayment of child support
(1) If the Secretary receives a certification by a State agency in accordance with the requirements of section 654(31) of this title that an individual owes arrearages of child support in an amount exceeding $2,500, the Secretary shall transmit such certification to the Secretary of State for action (with respect to denial, revocation, or limitation of passports) pursuant to paragraph (2).
(2) The Secretary of State shall, upon certification by the Secretary transmitted under paragraph (1), refuse to issue a passport to such individual, and may revoke, restrict, or limit a passport issued previously to such individual.
(3) The Secretary and the Secretary of State shall not be liable to an individual for any action with respect to a certification by a State agency under this section.
(l) Facilitation of agreements between State agencies and financial institutions
The Secretary, through the Federal Parent Locator Service, may aid State agencies providing services under State programs operated pursuant to this part and financial institutions doing business in two or more States in reaching agreements regarding the receipt from such institutions, and the transfer to the State agencies, of information that may be provided pursuant to section 666(a)(17)(A)(i) of this title, except that any State that, as of July 16, 1998, is conducting data matches pursuant to section 666(a)(17)(A)(i) of this title shall have until January 1, 2000, to allow the Secretary to obtain such information from such institutions that are operating in the State. For purposes of section 3413(d) of title 12, a disclosure pursuant to this subsection shall be considered a disclosure pursuant to a Federal statute.
(m) Comparisons with insurance information
(1) In general
The Secretary, through the Federal Parent Locator Service, may—
(A) compare information concerning individuals owing past-due support with information maintained by insurers (or their agents) concerning insurance claims, settlements, awards, and payments; and
(B) furnish information resulting from the data matches to the State agencies responsible for collecting child support from the individuals.
(2) Liability
An insurer (including any agent of an insurer) shall not be liable under any Federal or State law to any person for any disclosure provided for under this subsection, or for any other action taken in good faith in accordance with this subsection.
(n) Compliance with multilateral child support conventions
The Secretary shall use the authorities otherwise provided by law to ensure the compliance of the United States with any multilateral child support convention to which the United States is a party.
(o) Data exchange standards for improved interoperability
(1) Designation
The Secretary shall, in consultation with an interagency work group established by the Office of Management and Budget and considering State government perspectives, by rule, designate data exchange standards to govern, under this part—
(A) necessary categories of information that State agencies operating programs under State plans approved under this part are required under applicable Federal law to electronically exchange with another State agency; and
(B) Federal reporting and data exchange required under applicable Federal law.
(2) Requirements
The data exchange standards required by paragraph (1) shall, to the extent practicable—
(A) incorporate a widely accepted, non-proprietary, searchable, computer-readable format, such as the eXtensible Markup Language;
(B) contain interoperable standards developed and maintained by intergovernmental partnerships, such as the National Information Exchange Model;
(C) incorporate interoperable standards developed and maintained by Federal entities with authority over contracting and financial assistance;
(D) be consistent with and implement applicable accounting principles;
(E) be implemented in a manner that is cost-effective and improves program efficiency and effectiveness; and
(F) be capable of being continually upgraded as necessary.
(3) Rule of construction
Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to require a change to existing data exchange standards found to be effective and efficient.
(Aug. 14, 1935, ch. 531, title IV, §452, as added Pub. L. 93–647, §101(a), Jan. 4, 1975, 88 Stat. 2351; amended Pub. L. 95–30, title V, §504(a), May 23, 1977, 91 Stat. 163; Pub. L. 96–265, title IV, §§402(a), 405(c), (d), June 9, 1980, 94 Stat. 462, 464, 465; Pub. L. 96–272, title III, §301(b), June 17, 1980, 94 Stat. 527; Pub. L. 97–35, title XXIII, §2332(b), Aug. 13, 1981, 95 Stat. 861; Pub. L. 97–248, title I, §175(a)(1), Sept. 3, 1982, 96 Stat. 403; Pub. L. 98–369, div. B, title VI, §2663(c)(12), (j)(2)(B)(viii), July 18, 1984, 98 Stat. 1166, 1170; Pub. L. 98–378, §§4(b), 9(a)(1), 13(a), (b), 16, Aug. 16, 1984, 98 Stat. 1312, 1316, 1319, 1321; Pub. L. 99–514, §2, Oct. 22, 1986, 100 Stat. 2095; Pub. L. 100–203, title IX, §9143(a), Dec. 22, 1987, 101 Stat. 1330–322; Pub. L. 100–485, title I, §§111(a), 121(a), 122(a), 123(b), (d), Oct. 13, 1988, 102 Stat. 2348, 2351-2353; Pub. L. 101–239, title X, §10403(a)(1)(B)(i), Dec. 19, 1989, 103 Stat. 2487; Pub. L. 103–66, title XIII, §13721(a), Aug. 10, 1993, 107 Stat. 658; Pub. L. 103–432, title II, §213, Oct. 31, 1994, 108 Stat. 4461; Pub. L. 104–35, §1(b), Oct. 12, 1995, 109 Stat. 294; Pub. L. 104–193, title I, §108(c)(2)–(9), title III, §§301(c)(1), (2), 316(e)(1), 324(a), 331(b), 341(b), formerly 341(c), 342(b), 343(a), 345(a), 346(a), 370(a)(1), 395(d)(1)(B), Aug. 22, 1996, 110 Stat. 2165, 2200, 2215, 2223, 2230, 2232-2234, 2237, 2238, 2251, 2259; Pub. L. 104–208, div. A, title I, §101(e) [title II, §215], Sept. 30, 1996, 110 Stat. 3009–233, 3009-255; Pub. L. 105–33, title V, §§5513(a)(1), (2), 5540, 5541(a), 5556(c), Aug. 5, 1997, 111 Stat. 619, 630, 637; Pub. L. 105–200, title I, §102(a), title II, §201(e)(1)(A), title IV, §§401(c)(2), 406(b), 407(b), July 16, 1998, 112 Stat. 647, 657, 662, 671, 672; Pub. L. 106–169, title IV, §401(f), Dec. 14, 1999, 113 Stat. 1858; Pub. L. 109–171, title VII, §§7303(a), 7304, 7306(a), 7307(a)(2)(A)(i), (b), (c), Feb. 8, 2006, 120 Stat. 145–147; Pub. L. 113–183, title III, §§301(a)(1), 304(a), Sept. 29, 2014, 128 Stat. 1943, 1947.)
Editorial Notes
References in Text
The Internal Revenue Code of 1986, referred to in subsec. (b), is classified generally to Title 26, Internal Revenue Code.
Amendments
2014—Subsecs. (l), (m). Pub. L. 113–183, §301(a)(1)(A), redesignated subsec. (l), relating to comparisons with insurance information, as (m).
Subsec. (n). Pub. L. 113–183, §301(a)(1)(B), added subsec. (n).
Subsec. (o). Pub. L. 113–183, §304(a), added subsec. (o).
2006—Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 109–171, §7307(a)(2)(A)(i), (b), (c), substituted "enforce medical support included as part of a child support order" for "include medical support as part of any child support order and enforce medical support", inserted after first sentence "A State agency administering the program under this part may enforce medical support against a custodial parent if health care coverage is available to the custodial parent at a reasonable cost, notwithstanding any other provision of this part.", and inserted at end "For purposes of this part, the term 'medical support' may include health care coverage, such as coverage under a health insurance plan (including payment of costs of premiums, co-payments, and deductibles) and payment for medical expenses incurred on behalf of a child."
Subsec. (j). Pub. L. 109–171, §7304, inserted "or the amount appropriated under this paragraph for fiscal year 2002, whichever is greater" before ", which shall be available" in introductory provisions.
Subsec. (k)(1). Pub. L. 109–171, §7303(a), substituted "$2,500" for "$5,000".
Subsec. (l). Pub. L. 109–171, §7306(a), added subsec. (l) relating to comparisons with insurance information.
1999—Subsec. (a)(7). Pub. L. 106–169 substituted "social security" for "Social Security".
1998—Subsec. (a)(10)(H) to (J). Pub. L. 105–200, §407(b), inserted "and" at end of subpar. (H), redesignated subpar. (J) as (I), and struck out former subpar. (I) which read as follows: "the amount of administrative costs which are expended in each functional category of expenditures, including establishment of paternity; and".
Subsec. (d)(3). Pub. L. 105–200, §102(a), amended par. (3) generally. Prior to amendment, par. (3) read as follows: "The Secretary may waive any requirement of paragraph (1) or any condition specified under section 654(16) of this title with respect to a State if—
"(A) the State demonstrates to the satisfaction of the Secretary that the State has an alternative system or systems that enable the State, for purposes of section 609(a)(8) of this title, to achieve the paternity establishment percentages (as defined under subsection (g)(2) of this section) and other performance measures that may be established by the Secretary, and to submit data under section 654(15)(B) of this title that is complete and reliable, and to substantially comply with the requirements of this part; and
"(B)(i) the waiver meets the criteria of paragraphs (1), (2), and (3) of section 1315(b) of this title, or
"(ii) the State provides assurances to the Secretary that steps will be taken to otherwise improve the State's child support enforcement program."
Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 105–200, §401(c)(2), substituted "include" for "petition for the inclusion of" and inserted "and enforce medical support" before "whenever".
Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 105–200, §201(e)(1)(A), amended Pub. L. 104–193, §341. See 1996 Amendment notes below.
Subsec. (l). Pub. L. 105–200, §406(b), added subsec. (l).
1997—Subsec. (d)(3)(A). Pub. L. 105–33, §5513(a)(1)(A), substituted "section 609(a)(8) of this title, to achieve the paternity establishment percentages (as defined under subsection (g)(2) of this section) and other performance measures that may be established by the Secretary, and to submit data under section 654(15)(B) of this title that is complete and reliable, and to substantially comply with the requirements of this part; and" for "section 603(h) of this title, to be in substantial compliance with other requirements of this part; and".
Subsec. (g)(1). Pub. L. 105–33, §5513(a)(1)(B), substituted "section 609(a)(8)" for "section 603(h)" in introductory provisions.
Subsec. (g)(2). Pub. L. 105–33, §5513(a)(2), made technical amendment to directory language of Pub. L. 104–193, §108(c)(8). See 1996 Amendment note below.
Pub. L. 105–33, §5540, substituted "subparagraphs (A) and (B)" for "subparagraph (A)" in concluding provisions.
Subsec. (j). Pub. L. 105–33, §5556(c), amended Pub. L. 104–208, §101(e) [title II, §215], generally. See 1996 Amendment note below.
Pub. L. 105–33, §5541(a), substituted "which shall be available for use by the Secretary, either directly or through grants, contracts, or interagency agreements," for "to cover costs incurred by the Secretary" in introductory provisions.
1996—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 104–193, §395(d)(1)(B), substituted "noncustodial" for "absent" in two places.
Subsec. (a)(4). Pub. L. 104–193, §342(b), amended par. (4) generally. Prior to amendment, par. (4) read as follows: "evaluate the implementation of State programs established pursuant to such plan, conduct such audits of State programs established under the plan approved under this part as may be necessary to assure their conformity with the requirements of this part, and, not less often than once every three years (or not less often than annually in the case of any State to which a reduction is being applied under section 603(h)(1) of this title, or which is operating under a corrective action plan in accordance with section 603(h)(2) of this title), conduct a complete audit of the programs established under such plan in each State and determine for the purposes of the penalty provision of section 603(h) of this title whether the actual operation of such programs in each State conforms to the requirements of this part;".
Subsec. (a)(5). Pub. L. 104–193, §343(a), inserted before semicolon at end ", and establish procedures to be followed by States for collecting and reporting information required to be provided under this part, and establish uniform definitions (including those necessary to enable the measurement of State compliance with the requirements of this part relating to expedited processes) to be applied in following such procedures".
Subsec. (a)(7). Pub. L. 104–193, §331(b), inserted before semicolon at end ", and specify the minimum requirements of an affidavit to be used for the voluntary acknowledgment of paternity which shall include the Social Security number of each parent and, after consultation with the States, other common elements as determined by such designee".
Subsec. (a)(8). Pub. L. 104–193, §395(d)(1)(B), substituted "noncustodial" for "absent" in two places.
Subsec. (a)(9). Pub. L. 104–193, §316(e)(1), inserted "Federal" before "Parent".
Subsec. (a)(10). Pub. L. 104–193, §346(a)(5), struck out closing provisions which read as follows: "The information contained in any such report under subparagraph (A) shall specifically include (i) the total amount of child support payments collected as a result of services furnished during the fiscal year involved to individuals under section 654(6) of this title, (ii) the cost to the States and to the Federal Government of furnishing such services to those individuals, and (iii) the extent to which the furnishing of such services was successful in providing sufficient support to those individuals to assure that they did not require assistance under the State plan approved under part A of this subchapter."
Subsec. (a)(10)(A). Pub. L. 104–193, §346(a)(1)(A), substituted "this part, including—" for "this part;".
Subsec. (a)(10)(A)(i) to (iii). Pub. L. 104–193, §346(a)(1)(B), added cls. (i) to (iii).
Subsec. (a)(10)(C). Pub. L. 104–193, §346(a)(2)(A), in introductory provisions, substituted "separately stated for cases" for "with the data required under each clause being separately stated for cases", "or formerly received" for "cases where the child was formerly receiving", "671(a)(17) or 1396k of this title" for "671(a)(17) of this title", and "for all other cases under this part" for "all other cases under this part".
Pub. L. 104–193, §108(c)(2), in introductory provisions, substituted "assistance under a State program funded under part A" for "aid to families with dependent children", "such assistance or payments" for "such aid or payments", and "pursuant to section 608(a)(3) of this title or under section" for "under section 602(a)(26) or".
Subsec. (a)(10)(C)(i), (ii). Pub. L. 104–193, §346(a)(2)(B), struck out ", and the total amount of such obligations" before semicolon at end.
Subsec. (a)(10)(C)(iii). Pub. L. 104–193, §346(a)(2)(C), substituted "in which support was collected during the fiscal year" for "described in clause (i) in which support was collected during such fiscal year, and the total amount of such collections".
Subsec. (a)(10)(C)(iv) to (vii). Pub. L. 104–193, §346(a)(2)(D), (E), added cls. (iv) to (vi), redesignated former cl. (v) as (vii), and struck out former cl. (iv) which read as follows: "the number of cases described in clause (ii) in which support was collected during such fiscal year, and the total amount of such collections; and".
Subsec. (a)(10)(E). Pub. L. 104–193, §395(d)(1)(B), substituted "noncustodial" for "absent".
Subsec. (a)(10)(F). Pub. L. 104–193, §395(d)(1)(B), substituted "noncustodial" for "absent".
Pub. L. 104–193, §108(c)(3), substituted "assistance under a State program funded under part A" for "aid under a State plan approved under part A" and "(as determined by the State)" for "(as determined in accordance with the standards referred to in section 602(a)(26)(B)(ii) of this title)".
Subsec. (a)(10)(G). Pub. L. 104–193, §346(a)(3), struck out "on the use of Federal courts and" before "on use of the Internal Revenue Service".
Subsec. (a)(10)(J). Pub. L. 104–193, §346(a)(4), added subpar. (J).
Subsec. (a)(11). Pub. L. 104–193, §324(a), added par. (11).
Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 104–193, §301(c)(1), substituted "654(4)" for "654(6)".
Pub. L. 104–193, §108(c)(4), substituted "assistance under the State program funded under part A" for "aid under the State plan approved under part A".
Subsec. (d)(3)(B)(i). Pub. L. 104–193, §108(c)(5), substituted "1315(b)" for "1315(c)".
Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 104–193, §395(d)(1)(B), substituted "noncustodial" for "absent".
Subsec. (g)(1). Pub. L. 104–193, §341(b)(2)(B), formerly §341(c)(2)(B), as redesignated by Pub. L. 105–200, §201(e)(1)(A), inserted as closing provisions "In determining compliance under this section, a State may use as its paternity establishment percentage either the State's IV–D paternity establishment percentage (as defined in paragraph (2)(A)) or the State's statewide paternity establishment percentage (as defined in paragraph (2)(B))."
Subsec. (g)(1)(A). Pub. L. 104–193, §341(b)(1), formerly §341(c)(1), as redesignated by Pub. L. 105–200, §201(e)(1)(A), substituted "90" for "75".
Subsec. (g)(1)(B) to (F). Pub. L. 104–193, §341(b)(2)(A), formerly §341(c)(2)(A), as redesignated by Pub. L. 105–200, §201(e)(1)(A), added subpar. (B) and redesignated former subpars. (B) to (E) as (C) to (F), respectively.
Subsec. (g)(2). Pub. L. 104–193, §108(c)(8), as amended by Pub. L. 105–33, §5513(a)(2), in closing provisions, substituted "with respect to whom assistance is being provided under the State program funded under part A" for "who is a dependent child" and "found by the State to qualify for a good cause or other exception to cooperation pursuant to section 654(29) of this title" for "found to have good cause for refusing to cooperate under section 602(a)(26) of this title or any child with respect to whom the State agency administering the plan under part E of this subchapter determines (as provided in section 654(4)(B) of this title) that it is against the best interests of such child to do so".
Subsec. (g)(2)(A). Pub. L. 104–193, §341(b)(3)(A), formerly §341(c)(3)(A), as redesignated by Pub. L. 105–200, §201(e)(1)(A), in introductory provisions, substituted " 'IV–D paternity establishment percentage' " for " 'paternity establishment percentage' " and struck out "(or all States, as the case may be)" after "with respect to a State", and, in closing provisions, struck out "and" at end.
Pub. L. 104–193, §301(c)(2), substituted "654(4)(A)(ii)" for "654(6)" in cl. (ii)(I) and in closing provisions.
Pub. L. 104–193, §108(c)(7), in concluding provisions, substituted "assistance was being provided under the State program funded under part A" for "aid was being paid under the State's plan approved under part A or E".
Subsec. (g)(2)(A)(ii)(I). Pub. L. 104–193, §108(c)(6), substituted "assistance is being provided under the State program funded under part A" for "aid is being paid under the State's plan approved under part A or E".
Subsec. (g)(2)(B), (C). Pub. L. 104–193, §341(b)(3)(B), formerly §341(c)(3)(B), as redesignated by Pub. L. 105–200, §201(e)(1)(A), added subpar. (B) and redesignated former subpar. (B) as (C).
Subsec. (g)(3)(A). Pub. L. 104–193, §341(b)(4)(B), formerly §341(c)(4)(B), as redesignated by Pub. L. 105–200, §201(e)(1)(A), substituted "the percentage of children in a State who are born out of wedlock or for whom support has not been established" for "the percentage of children born out-of-wedlock in a State".
Pub. L. 104–193, §341(b)(4)(A), formerly §341(c)(4)(A), as redesignated by Pub. L. 105–200, §201(e)(1)(A), redesignated subpar. (B) as (A) and struck out former subpar. (A) which read as follows: "The requirements of this subsection are in addition to and shall not supplant any other requirement (that is not inconsistent with such requirements) established in regulations by the Secretary for the purpose of determining (for purposes of section 603(h) of this title) whether the program of a State operated under this part shall be treated as complying substantially with the requirements of this part."
Subsec. (g)(3)(B), (C). Pub. L. 104–193, §341(b)(4)(A), formerly §341(c)(4)(A), as redesignated by Pub. L. 105–200, §201(e)(1)(A), redesignated subpars. (B) and (C) as (A) and (B), respectively.
Subsec. (h). Pub. L. 104–193, §395(d)(1)(B), substituted "noncustodial" for "absent".
Pub. L. 104–193, §108(c)(9), substituted "pursuant to section 608(a)(3)" for "under section 602(a)(26)".
Subsec. (j). Pub. L. 104–208, title I, §101(e) [title II, §215], as amended by Pub. L. 105–33, §5556(c), substituted "a plan approved under this part" for "section 657(a) of this title".
Pub. L. 104–193, §345(a), added subsec. (j).
Subsec. (k). Pub. L. 104–193, §370(a)(1), added subsec. (k).
1995—Subsecs. (d)(1)(B), (2)(A), (B), (e). Pub. L. 104–35 substituted "in section 654(16)" for "in section 655(a)(1)(B)".
1994—Subsec. (g)(2)(A). Pub. L. 103–432, §213(5), in closing provisions, substituted "born out of wedlock" for "who were born out of wedlock during the immediately preceding fiscal year", substituted "the preceding fiscal year" for "such preceding fiscal year" in two places, and struck out "or E" after "under this part".
Subsec. (g)(2)(A)(i). Pub. L. 103–432, §213(1), struck out "during the fiscal year" after "wedlock".
Subsec. (g)(2)(A)(ii)(I). Pub. L. 103–432, §213(2), substituted "in the fiscal year or, at the option of the State, as of the end of such year" for "as of the end of the fiscal year".
Subsec. (g)(2)(A)(ii)(II). Pub. L. 103–432, §213(3), substituted "in the fiscal year or, at the option of the State, as of the end of such year" for "or E as of the end of the fiscal year".
Subsec. (g)(2)(A)(iii). Pub. L. 103–432, §213(4), struck out "during the fiscal year" after "acknowledged".
1993—Subsec. (g)(1). Pub. L. 103–66, §13721(a)(1)(A)–(C), substituted "1994" for "1991" and inserted "is based on reliable data and (rounded to the nearest whole percentage point)" before "equals".
Subsec. (g)(1)(A) to (E). Pub. L. 103–66, §13721(a)(1)(D), added subpars. (A) to (E) and struck out former subpars. (A) to (C) which read as follows:
"(A) 50 percent;
"(B) the paternity establishment percentage of the State for the fiscal year 1988, increased by the applicable number of percentage points; or
"(C) the paternity establishment percentage determined with respect to all States for such fiscal year."
Subsec. (g)(2). Pub. L. 103–66, §13721(a)(2)(C), (D), in concluding provisions, inserted "unless paternity is established for such child" after "the death of a parent" and "or any child with respect to whom the State agency administering the plan under part E of this subchapter determines (as provided in section 654(4)(B) of this title) that it is against the best interests of such child to do so" after "cooperate under section 602(a)(26) of this title".
Subsec. (g)(2)(A). Pub. L. 103–66, §13721(a)(2)(A), in cl. (i), inserted before comma "during the fiscal year", in cl. (ii)(I), substituted "part A or E as of the end of the" for "part A (or under all such plans) for such", in cl. (ii)(II), substituted "this part or E as of the end of the" for "this part (or under all such plans) for the", in cl. (iii), inserted before comma "or acknowledged during the fiscal year", and in concluding provisions, substituted "children who were born out of wedlock during the immediately preceding fiscal year and" for "children who have been born out of wedlock and", "aid was being paid" for "aid is being paid", "part A or E of this subchapter as of the end of such preceding fiscal" for "part A of this subchapter (or under all such plans) for such fiscal", "services were being" for "services are being", and "this part or E as of the end of such preceding fiscal" for "this part (or under all such plans) for the fiscal".
Subsec. (g)(2)(B). Pub. L. 103–66, §13721(a)(2)(B), added subpar. (B) and struck out former subpar. (B) which read as follows: "the applicable number of percentage points means, with respect to a fiscal year (beginning with the fiscal year 1991), 3 percentage points multiplied by the number of fiscal years after the fiscal year 1989 and before the beginning of such fiscal year."
1989—Subsec. (d)(2)(B). Pub. L. 101–239 substituted "automated data" for "automatic data".
1988—Subsec. (d)(1). Pub. L. 100–485, §123(b)(1), substituted "Except as provided in paragraph (3), the" for "The".
Pub. L. 100–485, §123(d), substituted "automated" for "automatic".
Subsec. (d)(3). Pub. L. 100–485, §123(b)(2), added par. (3).
Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 100–485, §111(a), added subsec. (g).
Subsec. (h). Pub. L. 100–485, §121(a), added subsec. (h).
Subsec. (i). Pub. L. 100–485, §122(a), added subsec. (i).
1987—Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 100–203 amended subsec. (c) generally. Prior to amendment, subsec. (c) read as follows:
"(1) There is hereby established in the Treasury a revolving fund which shall be available to the Secretary without fiscal year limitation, to enable him to pay to the States for distribution in accordance with the provisions of section 657 of this title such amounts as may be collected and paid (subject to paragraph (2)) into such fund under section 6305 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.
"(2) There is hereby appropriated to the fund, out of any moneys in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, amounts equal to the amounts collected under section 6305 the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, reduced by the amounts credited or refunded as overpayments of the amounts so collected. The amounts appropriated by the preceding sentence shall be transferred at least quarterly from the general fund of the Treasury to the fund on the basis of estimates made by the Secretary of the Treasury. Proper adjustments shall be made in the amounts subsequently transferred to the extent prior estimates were in excess of or less than the amounts required to be transferred."
1986—Subsecs. (b), (c). Pub. L. 99–514 substituted "Internal Revenue Code of 1986" for "Internal Revenue Code of 1954" wherever appearing.
1984—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 98–369, §2663(j)(2)(B)(viii), substituted "Health and Human Services" for "Health, Education, and Welfare" in provisions preceding par. (1).
Subsec. (a)(4). Pub. L. 98–378, §9(a)(1), substituted "not less often than once every three years (or not less often than annually in the case of any State to which a reduction is being applied under section 603(h)(1) of this title, or which is operating under a corrective action plan in accordance with section 603(h)(2) of this title)" for "not less often than annually".
Subsec. (a)(10)(C). Pub. L. 98–378, §13(a), amended subpar. (C) generally to include the reporting of additional aspects of child support enforcement. Prior to amendment, subpar. (C) read as follows: "the number of child support cases (with separate identification of the number in which collection of spousal support was involved) in each State during each quarter of the fiscal year last ending before the report is submitted and during each quarter of the preceding fiscal year (including the transitional period beginning July 1, 1976, and ending September 30, 1976, in the case of the first report to which this subparagraph applies), and the disposition of such cases;".
Subsec. (a)(10)(I). Pub. L. 98–378, §13(b), added subpar. (I).
Subsec. (c)(2). Pub. L. 98–369, §2663(c)(12), substituted "preceding sentence" for "preceding section".
Subsecs. (d)(1)(B), (2)(A), (B), (e). Pub. L. 98–378, §4(b), substituted "655(a)(1)(B) of this title" for "655(a)(3) of this title".
Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 98–378, §16, added subsec. (f).
1982—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 97–248 substituted provisions that the Secretary shall, upon the request of a State having in effect a State plan approved under this part, certify to the Secretary of the Treasury for collection pursuant to the provisions of section 6305 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 the amount of any child support obligation (including any support obligation with respect to the parent who is living with the child and receiving aid under the State plan approved under part A of this subchapter) which is assigned to such State or is undertaken to be collected by such State pursuant to section 654(6) of this title for provisions that the Secretary would, upon the request of any State having in effect a State plan approved under this part, certify the amount of any child support obligation assigned to such State, including any support obligation with respect to the parent who is living with the child and receiving aid under the State plan approved under part A of this subchapter (or undertaken to be collected by such State pursuant to section 654(6) of this title) to the Secretary of the Treasury for collection pursuant to the provisions of section 6305 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954.
1981—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 97–35, §2332(b)(1)(A), inserted "and support for the spouse (or former spouse) with whom the absent parent's child is living".
Subsec. (a)(7). Pub. L. 97–35, §2332(b)(1)(B), substituted "child and spousal support" for "child support".
Subsec. (a)(10)(C). Pub. L. 97–35, §2332(b)(1)(C), inserted "(with separate identification of the number in which collection of spousal support was involved)".
Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 97–35, §2332(b)(2), inserted ", including any support obligation with respect to the parent who is living with the child and receiving aid under the State plan approved under part A of this subchapter," and provision that all reimbursements be credited to the appropriation accounts which bore all or part of the costs involved in making the collections and substituting "court or administrative order" for "court order" and "reimburse the Secretary of the Treasury" for "reimburse the United States".
1980—Subsec. (a)(10). Pub. L. 96–272 inserted provisions following subpar. (H) setting out certain required information to be contained in reports under subpar. (A).
Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 96–265, §402(a), inserted "(or undertaken to be collected by such State pursuant to section 654(6) of this title)" after "assigned to such State".
Subsecs. (d), (e). Pub. L. 96–265, §405(c), (d), added subsecs. (d) and (e).
1977—Subsec. (a)(10). Pub. L. 95–30 substituted "not later than three months after the end of each fiscal year, beginning with the year 1977, submit to the Congress a full and complete report on all activities undertaken pursuant to the provisions of this part, which report shall include, but not be limited to, the following" for "not later than June 30 of each year beginning after December 31, 1975, submit to the Congress a report on all activities undertaken pursuant to the provisions of this part", substituted a colon for a period at end of provisions thus substituted, and added subpars. (A) to (H).
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 2006 Amendment
Pub. L. 109–171, title VII, §7303(c), Feb. 8, 2006, 120 Stat. 145, provided that: "The amendments made by this section [amending this section and section 654 of this title] shall take effect on October 1, 2006."
Amendment by sections 7304, 7306(a) and 7307(a)(2)(A)(i), (b), (c), of Pub. L. 109–171 effective as if enacted on Oct. 1, 2005, except as otherwise provided, see section 7701 of Pub. L. 109–171, set out as a note under section 603 of this title.
Effective Date of 1999 Amendment
Amendment by Pub. L. 106–169 effective as if included in the enactment of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996, Pub. L. 104–193, see section 401(q) of Pub. L. 106–169, set out as a note under section 602 of this title.
Effective Date of 1998 Amendment
Pub. L. 105–200, title II, §201(e)(2), July 16, 1998, 112 Stat. 657, provided that: "The amendments made by this subsection [amending this section and section 658 of this title, amending provisions set out as notes under this section and section 658 of this title, and repealing provisions set out as a note under section 658 of this title] shall take effect as if included in the enactment of section 341 of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 [Pub. L. 104–193]."
Pub. L. 105–200, title IV, §401(c)(3), July 16, 1998, 112 Stat. 662, as amended by Pub. L. 105–306, §4(b)(1), Oct. 28, 1998, 112 Stat. 2927, provided that: "The amendments made by this subsection [amending this section and section 666 of this title] shall be effective with respect to periods beginning on or after the later of—
"(A) October 1, 2001; or
"(B) the effective date of laws enacted by the legislature of such State implementing such amendments,
but in no event later than the first day of the first calendar quarter beginning after the close of the first regular session of the State legislature that begins after the date specified in subparagraph (A). For purposes of the preceding sentence, in the case of a State that has a 2-year legislative session, each year of such session shall be deemed to be a separate regular session of the State legislature."
[Pub. L. 105–306, §4(b)(2), Oct. 28, 1998, 112 Stat. 2927, provided that: "The amendment made by paragraph (1) of this subsection [amending section 401(c)(3) of Pub. L. 105–200, set out above] shall take effect as if included in the enactment of section 401(c)(3) of the Child Support Performance and Incentive Act of 1998 [Pub. L. 105–200]."]
Pub. L. 105–200, title IV, §407(c), July 16, 1998, 112 Stat. 672, provided that: "The amendments made by this section [amending this section and section 669 of this title] shall apply to information maintained with respect to fiscal year 1995 or any succeeding fiscal year."
Effective Date of 1997 Amendment
Pub. L. 105–33, title V, §5518(b), Aug. 5, 1997, 111 Stat. 621, provided that: "The amendments made by section 5513 of this Act [amending this section and sections 656, 664, 672, and 673 of this title] shall take effect as if the amendments had been included in section 108 of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 [Pub. L. 104–193] at the time such section 108 became law."
Amendment by sections 5540, 5541(a), and 5556(c) of Pub. L. 105–33 effective as if included in the enactment of title III of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996, Pub. L. 104–193, see section 5557 of Pub. L. 105–33, set out as a note under section 608 of this title.
Effective Date of 1996 Amendment
Pub. L. 104–208, div. A, title I, §101(e) [title II, §215], Sept. 30, 1996, 110 Stat. 3009–233, 3009-255, as amended by Pub. L. 105–33, title V, §5556(c), Aug. 5, 1997, 111 Stat. 637, provided in part that: "Amounts available under such sections 452(j) [42 U.S.C. 652(j)] and 453(o) [42 U.S.C. 653(o)] shall be calculated as though the amendments made by this section were effective October 1, 1995."
Amendment by section 108(c)(2)–(9) of Pub. L. 104–193 effective July 1, 1997, with transition rules relating to State options to accelerate such date, rules relating to claims, actions, and proceedings commenced before such date, rules relating to closing out of accounts for terminated or substantially modified programs and continuance in office of Assistant Secretary for Family Support, and provisions relating to termination of entitlement under AFDC program, see section 116 of Pub. L. 104–193, as amended, set out as an Effective Date note under section 601 of this title.
Pub. L. 104–193, title III, §341(c)(2), formerly §341(d)(2), Aug. 22, 1996, 110 Stat. 2233, as redesignated and amended by Pub. L. 105–200, title II, §201(e)(1)(A), (B)(ii), July 16, 1998, 112 Stat. 657, provided that: "The amendments made by subsection (b) [amending this section] shall become effective with respect to calendar quarters beginning on or after the date of the enactment of this Act [Aug. 22, 1996]."
Pub. L. 104–193, title III, §342(c), Aug. 22, 1996, 110 Stat. 2234, provided that: "The amendments made by this section [amending this section and section 654 of this title] shall be effective with respect to calendar quarters beginning 12 months or more after the date of the enactment of this Act [Aug. 22, 1996]."
Pub. L. 104–193, title III, §346(b), Aug. 22, 1996, 110 Stat. 2239, provided that: "The amendments made by subsection (a) [amending this section] shall be effective with respect to fiscal year 1997 and succeeding fiscal years."
Pub. L. 104–193, title III, §370(b), Aug. 22, 1996, 110 Stat. 2252, provided that: "This section [amending this section and section 654 of this title] and the amendments made by this section shall become effective October 1, 1997."
For provisions relating to effective date of title III of Pub. L. 104–193, see section 395(a)–(c) of Pub. L. 104–193, set out as a note under section 654 of this title.
Effective Date of 1993 Amendment
Pub. L. 103–66, title XIII, §13721(c), Aug. 10, 1993, 107 Stat. 660, provided that: "The amendments made by this section [amending this section and section 666 of this title] shall become effective with respect to a State on the later of—
"(1) October 1, 1993 or,
"(2) the date of enactment by the legislature of such State of all laws required by such amendments,
but in no event later than the first day of the first calendar quarter beginning after the close of the first regular session of the State legislature that begins after the date of enactment of this Act [Aug. 10, 1993]. For purposes of the previous sentence, in the case of a State that has a 2-year legislative session, each year of such session shall be deemed to be a separate regular session of the State legislature."
Effective Date of 1989 Amendment
Pub. L. 101–239, title X, §10403(a)(1)(B)(ii), Dec. 19, 1989, 103 Stat. 2487, provided that: "The amendments made by clause (i) [amending this section and section 602 of this title] shall take effect as if such amendments had been included in section 123(d) of the Family Support Act of 1988 [Pub. L. 100–485] on the date of the enactment of such Act [Oct. 13, 1988]."
Effective Date of 1988 Amendment
Pub. L. 100–485, title I, §111(f)(1), Oct. 13, 1988, 102 Stat. 2350, provided that: "The amendments made by subsections (a), (d), and (e) [enacting section 668 of this title and amending this section and section 666 of this title] shall become effective on the date of the enactment of this Act [Oct. 13, 1988]."
Effective Date of 1987 Amendment
Pub. L. 100–203, title IX, §9143(b), Dec. 22, 1987, 101 Stat. 1330–322, provided that: "The amendment made by subsection (a) [amending this section] shall apply with respect to amounts collected after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 22, 1987]."
Effective Date of 1984 Amendments
Pub. L. 98–378, §4(c), Aug. 16, 1984, 98 Stat. 1312, provided that: "The amendments made by this section [amending this section and section 655 of this title] shall apply to fiscal years after fiscal year 1983."
Pub. L. 98–378, §9(c), Aug. 16, 1984, 98 Stat. 1317, provided that: "The amendments made by this section [amending this section and sections 602 and 603 of this title] shall be effective on and after October 1, 1983."
Pub. L. 98–378, §13(c), Aug. 16, 1984, 98 Stat. 1320, provided that: "The amendments made by this section [amending this section] shall be effective for reports for fiscal year 1986 and each fiscal year thereafter."
Amendment by Pub. L. 98–369 effective July 18, 1984, but not to be construed as changing or affecting any right, liability, status, or interpretation which existed (under the provisions of law involved) before that date, see section 2664(b) of Pub. L. 98–369, set out as a note under section 401 of this title.
Effective Date of 1982 Amendment
Amendment by Pub. L. 97–248 effective Oct. 1, 1981, see section 175(b) of Pub. L. 97–248, set out as a note under section 503 of this title.
Effective Date of 1981 Amendment
Amendment by Pub. L. 97–35 effective Oct. 1, 1981, except as otherwise specifically provided, see section 2336 of Pub. L. 97–35, set out as a note under section 651 of this title.
Effective Date of 1980 Amendment
Pub. L. 96–265, title IV, §402(b), June 9, 1980, 94 Stat. 462, provided that: "The amendment made by subsection (a) [amending this section] shall take effect July 1, 1980."
Pub. L. 96–265, title IV, §405(e), June 9, 1980, 94 Stat. 465, provided that: "The amendments made by this section [amending this section and sections 654 and 655 of this title] shall take effect on July 1, 1981, and shall be effective only with respect to expenditures, referred to in section 455(a)(3) of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 655(a)(3)] (as amended by this Act), made on or after such date."
Effective Date of 1977 Amendment
Pub. L. 95–30, title V, §504(b), May 23, 1977, 91 Stat. 164, provided that: "The amendment made by subsection (a) [amending this section] shall be effective in the case of reports, submitted by the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare [now Health and Human Services] after 1976."
Regulations
Pub. L. 113–183, title III, §304(b), Sept. 29, 2014, 128 Stat. 1947, provided that: "The Secretary of Health and Human Services shall issue a proposed rule within 24 months after the date of the enactment of this section [Sept. 29, 2014]. The rule shall identify federally required data exchanges, include specification and timing of exchanges to be standardized, and address the factors used in determining whether and when to standardize data exchanges. It should also specify State implementation options and describe future milestones."
Pub. L. 100–485, title I, §122(b), Oct. 13, 1988, 102 Stat. 2351, provided that: "Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Oct. 13, 1988], the Secretary of Health and Human Services shall issue a notice of proposed rulemaking with respect to the standards required by the amendment made by subsection (a) [amending this section], and, after allowing not less than 60 days for public comment, shall issue final regulations not later than the first day of the 10th month to begin after such date of enactment."
Implementation of Performance Standards for State Paternity Establishment Programs
Pub. L. 100–485, title I, §111(f)(3), Oct. 13, 1988, 102 Stat. 2350, provided that: "The Secretary of Health and Human Services shall collect the data necessary to implement the requirements of section 452(g) of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 652(g)] (as added by subsection (a) of this section) and may, in carrying out the requirement of determining a State's paternity establishment percentage for the fiscal year 1988, compute such percentage on the basis of data collected with respect to the last quarter of such fiscal year (or, if such data are not available, the first quarter of the fiscal year 1989) if the Secretary determines that data for the full year are not available."
Requests for Child Support Assistance; Advisory Committee; Promulgation of Regulations
Pub. L. 100–485, title I, §121(b), Oct. 13, 1988, 102 Stat. 2351, provided that:
"(1) Not later than 60 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Oct. 13, 1988], the Secretary of Health and Human Services shall establish an advisory committee. The committee shall include representatives of organizations representing State governors, State welfare administrators, and State directors of programs under part D of title IV of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 651 et seq.]. The Secretary shall consult with the advisory committee before issuing any regulations with respect to the standards required by the amendment made by subsection (a) [amending this section] (including regulations regarding what constitutes an adequate response on the part of a State to the request of an individual, State, or jurisdiction).
"(2) Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Health and Human Services shall issue a notice of proposed rulemaking with respect to the standards required by the amendment made by subsection (a), and, after allowing not less than 60 days for public comment, shall issue final regulations not later than the first day of the 10th month beginning after such date of enactment."
Supplemental Report To Be Submitted to Congress Not Later Than June 30, 1977
Pub. L. 95–30, title V, §504(c), May 23, 1977, 91 Stat. 164, directed the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to submit to Congress, not later than June 30, 1977, a special supplementary report with respect to activities undertaken pursuant to part D of title IV of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 651 et seq.).
§653. Federal Parent Locator Service
(a) Establishment; purpose
(1) The Secretary shall establish and conduct a Federal Parent Locator Service, under the direction of the designee of the Secretary referred to in section 652(a) of this title, which shall be used for the purposes specified in paragraphs (2) and (3).
(2) For the purpose of establishing parentage or establishing, setting the amount of, modifying, or enforcing child support obligations, the Federal Parent Locator Service shall obtain and transmit to any authorized person specified in subsection (c)—
(A) information on, or facilitating the discovery of, the location of any individual—
(i) who is under an obligation to pay child support;
(ii) against whom such an obligation is sought;
(iii) to whom such an obligation is owed; or
(iv) who has or may have parental rights with respect to a child,
including the individual's social security number (or numbers), most recent address, and the name, address, and employer identification number of the individual's employer;
(B) information on the individual's wages (or other income) from, and benefits of, employment (including rights to or enrollment in group health care coverage); and
(C) information on the type, status, location, and amount of any assets of, or debts owed by or to, any such individual.
(3) For the purpose of enforcing any Federal or State law with respect to the unlawful taking or restraint of a child, or making or enforcing a child custody or visitation determination, as defined in section 663(d)(1) of this title, the Federal Parent Locator Service shall be used to obtain and transmit the information specified in section 663(c) of this title to the authorized persons specified in section 663(d)(2) of this title.
(b) Disclosure of information to authorized persons
(1) Upon request, filed in accordance with subsection (d), of any authorized person, as defined in subsection (c) for the information described in subsection (a)(2), or of any authorized person, as defined in section 663(d)(2) of this title for the information described in section 663(c) of this title, the Secretary shall, notwithstanding any other provision of law, provide through the Federal Parent Locator Service such information to such person, if such information—
(A) is contained in any files or records maintained by the Secretary or by the Department of Health and Human Services; or
(B) is not contained in such files or records, but can be obtained by the Secretary, under the authority conferred by subsection (e), from any other department, agency, or instrumentality of the United States or of any State,
and is not prohibited from disclosure under paragraph (2).
(2) No information shall be disclosed to any person if the disclosure of such information would contravene the national policy or security interests of the United States or the confidentiality of census data. The Secretary shall give priority to requests made by any authorized person described in subsection (c)(1). No information shall be disclosed to any person if the State has notified the Secretary that the State has reasonable evidence of domestic violence or child abuse and the disclosure of such information could be harmful to the custodial parent or the child of such parent, provided that—
(A) in response to a request from an authorized person (as defined in subsection (c) of this section and section 663(d)(2) of this title), the Secretary shall advise the authorized person that the Secretary has been notified that there is reasonable evidence of domestic violence or child abuse and that information can only be disclosed to a court or an agent of a court pursuant to subparagraph (B); and
(B) information may be disclosed to a court or an agent of a court described in subsection (c)(2) of this section or section 663(d)(2)(B) of this title, if—
(i) upon receipt of information from the Secretary, the court determines whether disclosure to any other person of that information could be harmful to the parent or the child; and
(ii) if the court determines that disclosure of such information to any other person could be harmful, the court and its agents shall not make any such disclosure.
(3) Information received or transmitted pursuant to this section shall be subject to the safeguard provisions contained in section 654(26) of this title.
(c) "Authorized person" defined
As used in subsection (a), the term "authorized person" means—
(1) any agent or attorney of any State or Indian tribe or tribal organization (as defined in subsections (e) and (l) of section 5304 of title 25), having in effect a plan approved under this part, who has the duty or authority under such plans to seek to recover any amounts owed as child and spousal support (including, when authorized under the State plan, any official of a political subdivision);
(2) the court which has authority to issue an order or to serve as the initiating court in an action to seek an order against a noncustodial parent for the support and maintenance of a child, or any agent of such court;
(3) the resident parent, legal guardian, attorney, or agent of a child (other than a child receiving assistance under a State program funded under part A) (as determined by regulations prescribed by the Secretary) without regard to the existence of a court order against a noncustodial parent who has a duty to support and maintain any such child;
(4) a State agency that is administering a program operated under a State plan under subpart 1 of part B, or a State plan approved under subpart 2 of part B or under part E; and
(5) an entity designated as a Central Authority for child support enforcement in a foreign reciprocating country or a foreign treaty country for purposes specified in section 659a(c)(2) of this title.
(d) Form and manner of request for information
A request for information under this section shall be filed in such manner and form as the Secretary shall by regulation prescribe and shall be accompanied or supported by such documents as the Secretary may determine to be necessary.
(e) Compliance with request; search of files and records by head of any department, etc., of United States; transmittal of information to Secretary; reimbursement for cost of search; fees
(1) Whenever the Secretary receives a request submitted under subsection (b) which he is reasonably satisfied meets the criteria established by subsections (a), (b), and (c), he shall promptly undertake to provide the information requested from the files and records maintained by any of the departments, agencies, or instrumentalities of the United States or of any State.
(2) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, whenever the individual who is the head of any department, agency, or instrumentality of the United States receives a request from the Secretary for information authorized to be provided by the Secretary under this section, such individual shall promptly cause a search to be made of the files and records maintained by such department, agency, or instrumentality with a view to determining whether the information requested is contained in any such files or records. If such search discloses the information requested, such individual shall immediately transmit such information to the Secretary, except that if any information is obtained the disclosure of which would contravene national policy or security interests of the United States or the confidentiality of census data, such information shall not be transmitted and such individual shall immediately notify the Secretary. If such search fails to disclose the information requested, such individual shall immediately so notify the Secretary. The costs incurred by any such department, agency, or instrumentality of the United States or of any State in providing such information to the Secretary shall be reimbursed by him in an amount which the Secretary determines to be reasonable payment for the information exchange (which amount shall not include payment for the costs of obtaining, compiling, or maintaining the information). Whenever such services are furnished to an individual specified in subsection (c)(3), a fee shall be charged such individual. The fee so charged shall be used to reimburse the Secretary or his delegate for the expense of providing such services.
(3) The Secretary of Labor shall enter into an agreement with the Secretary to provide prompt access for the Secretary (in accordance with this subsection) to the wage and unemployment compensation claims information and data maintained by or for the Department of Labor or State employment security agencies.
(f) Arrangements and cooperation with State and tribal agencies
The Secretary, in carrying out his duties and functions under this section, shall enter into arrangements with State and tribal agencies administering State and tribal plans approved under this part for such State and tribal agencies to accept from resident parents, legal guardians, or agents of a child described in subsection (c)(3) and to transmit to the Secretary requests for information with regard to the whereabouts of noncustodial parents and otherwise to cooperate with the Secretary in carrying out the purposes of this section.
(g) Reimbursement for reports by State agencies
The Secretary may reimburse Federal and State agencies for the costs incurred by such entities in furnishing information requested by the Secretary under this section in an amount which the Secretary determines to be reasonable payment for the information exchange (which amount shall not include payment for the costs of obtaining, compiling, or maintaining the information).
(h) Federal Case Registry of Child Support Orders
(1) In general
Not later than October 1, 1998, in order to assist States in administering programs under State plans approved under this part and programs funded under part A, and for the other purposes specified in this section, the Secretary shall establish and maintain in the Federal Parent Locator Service an automated registry (which shall be known as the "Federal Case Registry of Child Support Orders"), which shall contain abstracts of support orders and other information described in paragraph (2) with respect to each case and order in each State case registry maintained pursuant to section 654a(e) of this title, as furnished (and regularly updated), pursuant to section 654a(f) of this title, by State agencies administering programs under this part.
(2) Case and order information
The information referred to in paragraph (1) with respect to a case or an order shall be such information as the Secretary may specify in regulations (including the names, social security numbers or other uniform identification numbers, and State case identification numbers) to identify the individuals who owe or are owed support (or with respect to or on behalf of whom support obligations are sought to be established), and the State or States which have the case or order. Beginning not later than October 1, 1999, the information referred to in paragraph (1) shall include the names and social security numbers of the children of such individuals.
(3) Administration of Federal tax laws
The Secretary of the Treasury shall have access to the information described in paragraph (2) for the purpose of administering those sections of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 which grant tax benefits based on support or residence of children.
(i) National Directory of New Hires
(1) In general
In order to assist States in administering programs under State plans approved under this part and programs funded under part A, and for the other purposes specified in this section, the Secretary shall, not later than October 1, 1997, establish and maintain in the Federal Parent Locator Service an automated directory to be known as the National Directory of New Hires, which shall contain the information supplied pursuant to section 653a(g)(2) of this title.
(2) Data entry and deletion requirements
(A) In general
Information provided pursuant to section 653a(g)(2) of this title shall be entered into the data base maintained by the National Directory of New Hires within two business days after receipt, and shall be deleted from the data base 24 months after the date of entry.
(B) 12-month limit on access to wage and unemployment compensation information
The Secretary shall not have access for child support enforcement purposes to information in the National Directory of New Hires that is provided pursuant to section 653a(g)(2)(B) of this title, if 12 months has elapsed since the date the information is so provided and there has not been a match resulting from the use of such information in any information comparison under this subsection.
(C) Retention of data for research purposes
Notwithstanding subparagraphs (A) and (B), the Secretary may retain such samples of data entered in the National Directory of New Hires as the Secretary may find necessary to assist in carrying out subsection (j)(5).
(3) Administration of Federal tax laws
The Secretary of the Treasury shall have access to the information in the National Directory of New Hires for purposes of administering section 32 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, or the advance payment of the earned income tax credit under section 3507 of such Code, and verifying a claim with respect to employment in a tax return.
(4) List of multistate employers
The Secretary shall maintain within the National Directory of New Hires a list of multistate employers that report information regarding newly hired employees pursuant to section 653a(b)(1)(B) of this title, and the State which each such employer has designated to receive such information.
(j) Information comparisons and other disclosures
(1) Verification by Social Security Administration
(A) In general
The Secretary shall transmit information on individuals and employers maintained under this section to the Social Security Administration to the extent necessary for verification in accordance with subparagraph (B).
(B) Verification by SSA
The Social Security Administration shall verify the accuracy of, correct, or supply to the extent possible, and report to the Secretary, the following information supplied by the Secretary pursuant to subparagraph (A):
(i) The name, social security number, and birth date of each such individual.
(ii) The employer identification number of each such employer.
(2) Information comparisons
For the purpose of locating individuals in a paternity establishment case or a case involving the establishment, modification, or enforcement of a support order, the Secretary shall—
(A) compare information in the National Directory of New Hires against information in the support case abstracts in the Federal Case Registry of Child Support Orders not less often than every 2 business days; and
(B) within 2 business days after such a comparison reveals a match with respect to an individual, report the information to the State agency responsible for the case.
(3) Information comparisons and disclosures of information in all registries for subchapter IV program purposes
To the extent and with the frequency that the Secretary determines to be effective in assisting States to carry out their responsibilities under programs operated under this part, part B, or part E and programs funded under part A, the Secretary shall—
(A) compare the information in each component of the Federal Parent Locator Service maintained under this section against the information in each other such component (other than the comparison required by paragraph (2)), and report instances in which such a comparison reveals a match with respect to an individual to State agencies operating such programs; and
(B) disclose information in such components to such State agencies.
(4) Provision of new hire information to the Social Security Administration
The National Directory of New Hires shall provide the Commissioner of Social Security with all information in the National Directory.
(5) Research
The Secretary may provide access to data in each component of the Federal Parent Locator Service maintained under this section and to information reported by employers pursuant to section 653a(b) of this title for research purposes found by the Secretary to be likely to contribute to achieving the purposes of part A or this part, but without personal identifiers.
(6) Information comparisons and disclosure for enforcement of obligations on Higher Education Act loans and grants
(A) Furnishing of information by the Secretary of Education
The Secretary of Education shall furnish to the Secretary, on a quarterly basis or at such less frequent intervals as may be determined by the Secretary of Education, information in the custody of the Secretary of Education for comparison with information in the National Directory of New Hires, in order to obtain the information in such directory with respect to individuals who—
(i) are borrowers of loans made under title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965 [20 U.S.C. 1070 et seq.] that are in default; or
(ii) owe an obligation to refund an overpayment of a grant awarded under such title.
(B) Requirement to seek minimum information necessary
The Secretary of Education shall seek information pursuant to this section only to the extent essential to improving collection of the debt described in subparagraph (A).
(C) Duties of the Secretary
(i) Information comparison; disclosure to the Secretary of Education
The Secretary, in cooperation with the Secretary of Education, shall compare information in the National Directory of New Hires with information in the custody of the Secretary of Education, and disclose information in that Directory to the Secretary of Education, in accordance with this paragraph, for the purposes specified in this paragraph.
(ii) Condition on disclosure
The Secretary shall make disclosures in accordance with clause (i) only to the extent that the Secretary determines that such disclosures do not interfere with the effective operation of the program under this part. Support collection under section 666(b) of this title shall be given priority over collection of any defaulted student loan or grant overpayment against the same income.
(D) Use of information by the Secretary of Education
The Secretary of Education may use information resulting from a data match pursuant to this paragraph only—
(i) for the purpose of collection of the debt described in subparagraph (A) owed by an individual whose annualized wage level (determined by taking into consideration information from the National Directory of New Hires) exceeds $16,000; and
(ii) after removal of personal identifiers, to conduct analyses of student loan defaults.
(E) Disclosure of information by the Secretary of Education
(i) Disclosures permitted
The Secretary of Education may disclose information resulting from a data match pursuant to this paragraph only to—
(I) a guaranty agency holding a loan made under part B of title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965 [20 U.S.C. 1071 et seq.] on which the individual is obligated;
(II) a contractor or agent of the guaranty agency described in subclause (I);
(III) a contractor or agent of the Secretary; and
(IV) the Attorney General.
(ii) Purpose of disclosure
The Secretary of Education may make a disclosure under clause (i) only for the purpose of collection of the debts owed on defaulted student loans, or overpayments of grants, made under title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965 [20 U.S.C. 1070 et seq.].
(iii) Restriction on redisclosure
An entity to which information is disclosed under clause (i) may use or disclose such information only as needed for the purpose of collecting on defaulted student loans, or overpayments of grants, made under title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965.
(F) Reimbursement of HHS costs
The Secretary of Education shall reimburse the Secretary, in accordance with subsection (k)(3), for the additional costs incurred by the Secretary in furnishing the information requested under this subparagraph.
(7) Information comparisons for housing assistance programs
(A) Furnishing of information by HUD
Subject to subparagraph (G), the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development shall furnish to the Secretary, on such periodic basis as determined by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development in consultation with the Secretary, information in the custody of the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development for comparison with information in the National Directory of New Hires, in order to obtain information in such Directory with respect to individuals who are participating in any program under—
(i) the United States Housing Act of 1937 (42 U.S.C. 1437 et seq.);
(ii) section 1701q of title 12;
(iii) section 1715l(d)(3), 1715l(d)(5), or 1715z–1 of title 12;
(iv) section 8013 of this title; or
(v) section 1701s of title 12.
(B) Requirement to seek minimum information
The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development shall seek information pursuant to this section only to the extent necessary to verify the employment and income of individuals described in subparagraph (A).
(C) Duties of the Secretary
(i) Information disclosure
The Secretary, in cooperation with the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, shall compare information in the National Directory of New Hires with information provided by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development with respect to individuals described in subparagraph (A), and shall disclose information in such Directory regarding such individuals to the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, in accordance with this paragraph, for the purposes specified in this paragraph.
(ii) Condition on disclosure
The Secretary shall make disclosures in accordance with clause (i) only to the extent that the Secretary determines that such disclosures do not interfere with the effective operation of the program under this part.
(D) Use of information by HUD
The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development may use information resulting from a data match pursuant to this paragraph only—
(i) for the purpose of verifying the employment and income of individuals described in subparagraph (A); and
(ii) after removal of personal identifiers, to conduct analyses of the employment and income reporting of individuals described in subparagraph (A).
(E) Disclosure of information by HUD
(i) Purpose of disclosure
The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development may make a disclosure under this subparagraph only for the purpose of verifying the employment and income of individuals described in subparagraph (A).
(ii) Disclosures permitted
Subject to clause (iii), the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development may disclose information resulting from a data match pursuant to this paragraph only to a public housing agency, the Inspector General of the Department of Housing and Urban Development, and the Attorney General in connection with the administration of a program described in subparagraph (A). Information obtained by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development pursuant to this paragraph shall not be made available under section 552 of title 5.
(iii) Conditions on disclosure
Disclosures under this paragraph shall be—
(I) made in accordance with data security and control policies established by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development and approved by the Secretary;
(II) subject to audit in a manner satisfactory to the Secretary; and
(III) subject to the sanctions under subsection (l)(2).
(iv) Additional disclosures
(I) Determination by Secretaries
The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development and the Secretary shall determine whether to permit disclosure of information under this paragraph to persons or entities described in subclause (II), based on an evaluation made by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (in consultation with and approved by the Secretary), of the costs and benefits of disclosures made under clause (ii) and the adequacy of measures used to safeguard the security and confidentiality of information so disclosed.
(II) Permitted persons or entities
If the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development and the Secretary determine pursuant to subclause (I) that disclosures to additional persons or entities shall be permitted, information under this paragraph may be disclosed by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to a private owner, a management agent, and a contract administrator in connection with the administration of a program described in subparagraph (A), subject to the conditions in clause (iii) and such additional conditions as agreed to by the Secretaries.
(v) Restrictions on redisclosure
A person or entity to which information is disclosed under this subparagraph may use or disclose such information only as needed for verifying the employment and income of individuals described in subparagraph (A), subject to the conditions in clause (iii) and such additional conditions as agreed to by the Secretaries.
(F) Reimbursement of HHS costs
The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development shall reimburse the Secretary, in accordance with subsection (k)(3), for the costs incurred by the Secretary in furnishing the information requested under this paragraph.
(G) Consent
The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development shall not seek, use, or disclose information under this paragraph relating to an individual without the prior written consent of such individual (or of a person legally authorized to consent on behalf of such individual).
(8) Information comparisons and disclosure to assist in administration of unemployment compensation programs
(A) In general
If, for purposes of administering an unemployment compensation program under Federal or State law, a State agency responsible for the administration of such program transmits to the Secretary the names and social security account numbers of individuals, the Secretary shall disclose to such State agency information on such individuals and their employers maintained in the National Directory of New Hires, subject to this paragraph.
(B) Condition on disclosure by the Secretary
The Secretary shall make a disclosure under subparagraph (A) only to the extent that the Secretary determines that the disclosure would not interfere with the effective operation of the program under this part.
(C) Use and disclosure of information by State agencies
(i) In general
A State agency may not use or disclose information provided under this paragraph except for purposes of administering a program referred to in subparagraph (A).
(ii) Information security
The State agency shall have in effect data security and control policies that the Secretary finds adequate to ensure the security of information obtained under this paragraph and to ensure that access to such information is restricted to authorized persons for purposes of authorized uses and disclosures.
(iii) Penalty for misuse of information
An officer or employee of the State agency who fails to comply with this subparagraph shall be subject to the sanctions under subsection (l)(2) to the same extent as if such officer or employee was an officer or employee of the United States.
(D) Procedural requirements
State agencies requesting information under this paragraph shall adhere to uniform procedures established by the Secretary governing information requests and data matching under this paragraph.
(E) Reimbursement of costs
The State agency shall reimburse the Secretary, in accordance with subsection (k)(3), for the costs incurred by the Secretary in furnishing the information requested under this paragraph.
(9) Information comparisons and disclosure to assist in Federal debt collection
(A) Furnishing of information by the Secretary of the Treasury
The Secretary of the Treasury shall furnish to the Secretary, on such periodic basis as determined by the Secretary of the Treasury in consultation with the Secretary, information in the custody of the Secretary of the Treasury for comparison with information in the National Directory of New Hires, in order to obtain information in such Directory with respect to persons—
(i) who owe delinquent nontax debt to the United States; and
(ii) whose debt has been referred to the Secretary of the Treasury in accordance with section 3711(g) of title 31.
(B) Requirement to seek minimum information
The Secretary of the Treasury shall seek information pursuant to this section only to the extent necessary to improve collection of the debt described in subparagraph (A).
(C) Duties of the Secretary
(i) Information disclosure
The Secretary, in cooperation with the Secretary of the Treasury, shall compare information in the National Directory of New Hires with information provided by the Secretary of the Treasury with respect to persons described in subparagraph (A) and shall disclose information in such Directory regarding such persons to the Secretary of the Treasury in accordance with this paragraph, for the purposes specified in this paragraph. Such comparison of information shall not be considered a matching program as defined in section 552a of title 5.
(ii) Condition on disclosure
The Secretary shall make disclosures in accordance with clause (i) only to the extent that the Secretary determines that such disclosures do not interfere with the effective operation of the program under this part. Support collection under section 666(b) of this title shall be given priority over collection of any delinquent Federal nontax debt against the same income.
(D) Use of information by the Secretary of the Treasury
The Secretary of the Treasury may use information provided under this paragraph only for purposes of collecting the debt described in subparagraph (A).
(E) Disclosure of information by the Secretary of the Treasury
(i) Purpose of disclosure
The Secretary of the Treasury may make a disclosure under this subparagraph only for purposes of collecting the debt described in subparagraph (A).
(ii) Disclosures permitted
Subject to clauses (iii) and (iv), the Secretary of the Treasury may disclose information resulting from a data match pursuant to this paragraph only to the Attorney General in connection with collecting the debt described in subparagraph (A).
(iii) Conditions on disclosure
Disclosures under this subparagraph shall be—
(I) made in accordance with data security and control policies established by the Secretary of the Treasury and approved by the Secretary;
(II) subject to audit in a manner satisfactory to the Secretary; and
(III) subject to the sanctions under subsection (l)(2).
(iv) Additional disclosures
(I) Determination by Secretaries
The Secretary of the Treasury and the Secretary shall determine whether to permit disclosure of information under this paragraph to persons or entities described in subclause (II), based on an evaluation made by the Secretary of the Treasury (in consultation with and approved by the Secretary), of the costs and benefits of such disclosures and the adequacy of measures used to safeguard the security and confidentiality of information so disclosed.
(II) Permitted persons or entities
If the Secretary of the Treasury and the Secretary determine pursuant to subclause (I) that disclosures to additional persons or entities shall be permitted, information under this paragraph may be disclosed by the Secretary of the Treasury, in connection with collecting the debt described in subparagraph (A), to a contractor or agent of either Secretary and to the Federal agency that referred such debt to the Secretary of the Treasury for collection, subject to the conditions in clause (iii) and such additional conditions as agreed to by the Secretaries.
(v) Restrictions on redisclosure
A person or entity to which information is disclosed under this subparagraph may use or disclose such information only as needed for collecting the debt described in subparagraph (A), subject to the conditions in clause (iii) and such additional conditions as agreed to by the Secretaries.
(F) Reimbursement of HHS costs
The Secretary of the Treasury shall reimburse the Secretary, in accordance with subsection (k)(3), for the costs incurred by the Secretary in furnishing the information requested under this paragraph. Any such costs paid by the Secretary of the Treasury shall be considered costs of implementing section 3711(g) of title 31 in accordance with section 3711(g)(6) of title 31 and may be paid from the account established pursuant to section 3711(g)(7) of title 31.
(10) Information comparisons and disclosure to assist in administration of supplemental nutrition assistance program benefits
(A) In general
If, for purposes of administering a supplemental nutrition assistance program under the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 [7 U.S.C. 2011 et seq.], a State agency responsible for the administration of the program transmits to the Secretary the names and social security account numbers of individuals, the Secretary shall disclose to the State agency information on the individuals and their employers maintained in the National Directory of New Hires, subject to this paragraph.
(B) Condition on disclosure by the Secretary
The Secretary shall make a disclosure under subparagraph (A) only to the extent that the Secretary determines that the disclosure would not interfere with the effective operation of the program under this part.
(C) Use and disclosure of information by State agencies
(i) In general
A State agency may not use or disclose information provided under this paragraph except for purposes of administering a program referred to in subparagraph (A).
(ii) Information security
The State agency shall have in effect data security and control policies that the Secretary finds adequate to ensure the security of information obtained under this paragraph and to ensure that access to such information is restricted to authorized persons for purposes of authorized uses and disclosures.
(iii) Penalty for misuse of information
An officer or employee of the State agency who fails to comply with this subparagraph shall be subject to the sanctions under subsection (l)(2) to the same extent as if the officer or employee were an officer or employee of the United States.
(D) Procedural requirements
State agencies requesting information under this paragraph shall adhere to uniform procedures established by the Secretary governing information requests and data matching under this paragraph.
(E) Reimbursement of costs
The State agency shall reimburse the Secretary, in accordance with subsection (k)(3), for the costs incurred by the Secretary in furnishing the information requested under this paragraph.
(11) Information comparisons and disclosures to assist in administration of certain veterans benefits
(A) Furnishing of information by Secretary of Veterans Affairs
Subject to the provisions of this paragraph, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall furnish to the Secretary, on such periodic basis as determined by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs in consultation with the Secretary, information in the custody of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs for comparison with information in the National Directory of New Hires, in order to obtain information in such Directory with respect to individuals who are applying for or receiving—
(i) needs-based pension benefits provided under chapter 15 of title 38 or under any other law administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs;
(ii) parents' dependency and indemnity compensation provided under section 1315 of title 38;
(iii) health care services furnished under subsections (a)(2)(G), (a)(3), or (b) of section 1710 of title 38; or
(iv) compensation paid under chapter 11 of title 38 at the 100 percent rate based solely on unemployability and without regard to the fact that the disability or disabilities are not rated as 100 percent disabling under the rating schedule.
(B) Requirement to seek minimum information
The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall seek information pursuant to this paragraph only to the extent necessary to verify the employment and income of individuals described in subparagraph (A).
(C) Duties of the Secretary
(i) Information disclosure
The Secretary, in cooperation with the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, shall compare information in the National Directory of New Hires with information provided by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs with respect to individuals described in subparagraph (A), and shall disclose information in such Directory regarding such individuals to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, in accordance with this paragraph, for the purposes specified in this paragraph.
(ii) Condition on disclosure
The Secretary shall make disclosures in accordance with clause (i) only to the extent that the Secretary determines that such disclosures do not interfere with the effective operation of the program under this part.
(D) Use of information by Secretary of Veterans Affairs
The Secretary of Veterans Affairs may use information resulting from a data match pursuant to this paragraph only—
(i) for the purposes specified in subparagraph (B); and
(ii) after removal of personal identifiers, to conduct analyses of the employment and income reporting of individuals described in subparagraph (A).
(E) Reimbursement of HHS costs
The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall reimburse the Secretary, in accordance with subsection (k)(3), for the costs incurred by the Secretary in furnishing the information requested under this paragraph.
(F) Consent
The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall not seek, use, or disclose information under this paragraph relating to an individual without the prior written consent of such individual (or of a person legally authorized to consent on behalf of such individual).
(G) Expiration of authority
The authority under this paragraph shall be in effect as follows:
(i) During the period beginning on December 26, 2007, and ending on November 18, 2011.
(ii) During the period beginning on September 30, 2013, and ending 180 days after that date.
(k) Fees
(1) For SSA verification
The Secretary shall reimburse the Commissioner of Social Security, at a rate negotiated between the Secretary and the Commissioner, for the costs incurred by the Commissioner in performing the verification services described in subsection (j).
(2) For information from State directories of new hires
The Secretary shall reimburse costs incurred by State directories of new hires in furnishing information as required by section 653a(g)(2) of this title, at rates which the Secretary determines to be reasonable (which rates shall not include payment for the costs of obtaining, compiling, or maintaining such information).
(3) For information furnished to State and Federal agencies
A State or Federal agency that receives information from the Secretary pursuant to this section or section 652(m) of this title shall reimburse the Secretary for costs incurred by the Secretary in furnishing the information, at rates which the Secretary determines to be reasonable (which rates shall include payment for the costs of obtaining, verifying, maintaining, and comparing the information).
(l) Restriction on disclosure and use
(1) In general
Information in the Federal Parent Locator Service, and information resulting from comparisons using such information, shall not be used or disclosed except as expressly provided in this section, subject to section 6103 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.
(2) Penalty for misuse of information in the National Directory of New Hires
The Secretary shall require the imposition of an administrative penalty (up to and including dismissal from employment), and a fine of $1,000, for each act of unauthorized access to, disclosure of, or use of, information in the National Directory of New Hires established under subsection (i) by any officer or employee of the United States or any other person who knowingly and willfully violates this paragraph.
(m) Information integrity and security
The Secretary shall establish and implement safeguards with respect to the entities established under this section designed to—
(1) ensure the accuracy and completeness of information in the Federal Parent Locator Service; and
(2) restrict access to confidential information in the Federal Parent Locator Service to authorized persons, and restrict use of such information to authorized purposes.
(n) Federal Government reporting
Each department, agency, and instrumentality of the United States shall on a quarterly basis report to the Federal Parent Locator Service the name and social security number of each employee and the wages paid to the employee during the previous quarter, except that such a report shall not be filed with respect to an employee of a department, agency, or instrumentality performing intelligence or counterintelligence functions, if the head of such department, agency, or instrumentality has determined that filing such a report could endanger the safety of the employee or compromise an ongoing investigation or intelligence mission.
(o) Use of set-aside funds
Out of any money in the Treasury of the United States not otherwise appropriated, there is hereby appropriated to the Secretary for each fiscal year an amount equal to 2 percent of the total amount paid to the Federal Government pursuant to a plan approved under this part during the immediately preceding fiscal year (as determined on the basis of the most recent reliable data available to the Secretary as of the end of the third calendar quarter following the end of such preceding fiscal year) or the amount appropriated under this paragraph 1 for fiscal year 2002, whichever is greater, which shall be available for use by the Secretary, either directly or through grants, contracts, or interagency agreements, for operation of the Federal Parent Locator Service under this section, to the extent such costs are not recovered through user fees. Amounts appropriated under this subsection shall remain available until expended.
(p) "Support order" defined
As used in this part, the term "support order" means a judgment, decree, or order, whether temporary, final, or subject to modification, issued by a court or an administrative agency of competent jurisdiction, for the support and maintenance of a child, including a child who has attained the age of majority under the law of the issuing State, or of the parent with whom the child is living, which provides for monetary support, health care, arrearages, or reimbursement, and which may include related costs and fees, interest and penalties, income withholding, attorneys' fees, and other relief.
(Aug. 14, 1935, ch. 531, title IV, §453, as added Pub. L. 93–647, §101(a), Jan. 4, 1975, 88 Stat. 2353; amended Pub. L. 97–35, title XXIII, §2332(c), Aug. 13, 1981, 95 Stat. 862; Pub. L. 98–369, div. B, title VI, §2663(c)(13), (j)(2)(B)(ix), July 18, 1984, 98 Stat. 1166, 1170; Pub. L. 98–378, §§17, 19(a), Aug. 16, 1984, 98 Stat. 1321, 1322; Pub. L. 100–485, title I, §124(a), Oct. 13, 1988, 102 Stat. 2353; Pub. L. 104–193, title I, §108(c)(10), title III, §§316(a)–(f), 345(b), 366, 395(d)(1)(C), (2)(A), Aug. 22, 1996, 110 Stat. 2166, 2214-2216, 2237, 2250, 2259; Pub. L. 104–208, div. A, title I, §101(e) [title II, §215], Sept. 30, 1996, 110 Stat. 3009–233, 3009-255; Pub. L. 105–33, title V, §§5534(a), 5535, 5541(b), 5543, 5553, 5556(c), Aug. 5, 1997, 111 Stat. 627, 629-631, 636, 637; Pub. L. 105–34, title X, §1090(a)(2), Aug. 5, 1997, 111 Stat. 961; Pub. L. 105–89, title I, §105, Nov. 19, 1997, 111 Stat. 2120; Pub. L. 105–200, title IV, §§402(a), (b), 410(d), July 16, 1998, 112 Stat. 668, 669, 673; Pub. L. 106–113, div. B, §1000(a)(5) [title III, §303(a), (b)], Nov. 29, 1999, 113 Stat. 1536, 1501A-304, 1501A-306; Pub. L. 108–199, div. G, title II, §217(a), Jan. 23, 2004, 118 Stat. 394; Pub. L. 108–295, §3, Aug. 9, 2004, 118 Stat. 1091; Pub. L. 108–447, div. H, title VI, §643, Dec. 8, 2004, 118 Stat. 3283; Pub. L. 109–171, title VII, §§7305, 7306(b), Feb. 8, 2006, 120 Stat. 145, 146; Pub. L. 109–250, §2, July 27, 2006, 120 Stat. 652; Pub. L. 110–157, title III, §301(a), Dec. 26, 2007, 121 Stat. 1833; Pub. L. 110–234, title IV, §4002(b)(1)(A), (B), (2)(V), May 22, 2008, 122 Stat. 1095–1097; Pub. L. 110–246, §4(a), title IV, §4002(b)(1)(A), (B), (2)(V), June 18, 2008, 122 Stat. 1664, 1857, 1858; Pub. L. 110–351, title I, §105, Oct. 7, 2008, 122 Stat. 3957; Pub. L. 112–37, §17(b), Oct. 5, 2011, 125 Stat. 398; Pub. L. 113–37, §3(a), Sept. 30, 2013, 127 Stat. 525; Pub. L. 113–79, title IV, §4030(p), Feb. 7, 2014, 128 Stat. 815; Pub. L. 113–183, title III, §§301(a)(2), (b), 302(a), (c), Sept. 29, 2014, 128 Stat. 1943, 1945, 1946.)
Editorial Notes
References in Text
The Internal Revenue Code of 1986, referred to in subsecs. (h)(3), (i)(3), and (l), is classified generally to Title 26, Internal Revenue Code.
The Higher Education Act of 1965, referred to in subsec. (j)(6)(A), (E), is Pub. L. 89–329, Nov. 8, 1965, 79 Stat. 1219. Title IV of the Act is classified generally to subchapter IV (§1070 et seq.) of chapter 28 of Title 20, Education. Part B of title IV of the Act is classified generally to part B (§1071 et seq.) of subchapter IV of chapter 28 of Title 20. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 1001 of Title 20 and Tables.
The United States Housing Act of 1937, referred to in subsec. (j)(7)(A)(i), is act Sept. 1, 1937, ch. 896, as revised generally by Pub. L. 93–383, title II, §201(a), Aug. 22, 1974, 88 Stat. 653, and amended, which is classified generally to chapter 8 (§1437 et seq.) of this title. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 1437 of this title and Tables.
The Food and Nutrition Act of 2008, referred to in subsec. (j)(10)(A), is Pub. L. 88–525, Aug. 31, 1964, 78 Stat. 703, which is classified generally to chapter 51 (§2011 et seq.) of Title 7, Agriculture. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 2011 of Title 7 and Tables.
Codification
Pub. L. 110–234 and Pub. L. 110–246 made identical amendments to this section. The amendments by Pub. L. 110–234 were repealed by section 4(a) of Pub. L. 110–246.
Amendments
2014—Subsec. (c)(1). Pub. L. 113–183, §302(a), inserted "or Indian tribe or tribal organization (as defined in subsections (e) and (l) of section 5304 of title 25)," after "any State".
Subsec. (c)(5). Pub. L. 113–183, §301(b), added par. (5).
Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 113–183, §302(c), inserted "and tribal" after "State" wherever appearing.
Subsec. (j)(10). Pub. L. 113–79 substituted "supplemental nutrition assistance program benefits" for "food stamp programs" in heading.
Subsec. (k)(3). Pub. L. 113–183, §301(a)(2), substituted "652(m)" for "652(l)".
2013—Subsec. (j)(11)(G). Pub. L. 113–37 added subpar. (G) and struck out former subpar. (G). Prior to amendment, text read as follows: "The authority under this paragraph shall expire on November 18, 2011."
2011—Subsec. (j)(11)(G). Pub. L. 112–37 substituted "November 18, 2011" for "September 30, 2011".
2008—Subsec. (j)(3). Pub. L. 110–351 inserted ", part B, or part E" after "this part" in introductory provisions.
Subsec. (j)(10)(A). Pub. L. 110–246, §4002(b)(1)(A), (B), (2)(V), substituted "supplemental nutrition assistance program" for "food stamp program" and "Food and Nutrition Act of 2008" for "Food Stamp Act of 1977".
2007—Subsec. (j)(11). Pub. L. 110–157 added par. (11).
2006—Subsec. (j)(7), (9). Pub. L. 109–250, §2(1), redesignated par. (7) relating to information comparisons and disclosure to assist in Federal debt collection as (9).
Subsec. (j)(10). Pub. L. 109–250, §2(2), added par. (10).
Subsec. (k)(3). Pub. L. 109–171, §7306(b), inserted "or section 652(l) of this title" after "pursuant to this section".
Subsec. (o). Pub. L. 109–171, §7305, inserted "or the amount appropriated under this paragraph for fiscal year 2002, whichever is greater" before ", which shall be available" in first sentence and struck out "for each of fiscal years 1997 through 2001" before "shall remain available" in last sentence.
2004—Subsec. (j)(7). Pub. L. 108–447 added par. (7) relating to information comparisons and disclosure to assist in Federal debt collection.
Pub. L. 108–199 added par. (7) relating to information comparisons for housing assistance programs.
Subsec. (j)(8). Pub. L. 108–295 added par. (8).
1999—Subsec. (j)(6). Pub. L. 106–113, §1000(a)(5) [title III, §303(a)], added par. (6).
Subsec. (l)(2). Pub. L. 106–113, §1000(a)(5) [title III, §303(b)], amended Pub. L. 105–200, §402(a), by inserting "or any other person" after "employee of the United States" in new par. (2). See 1998 Amendment note below.
1998—Subsec. (a)(2). Pub. L. 105–200, §410(d)(1), (2), in introductory provisions, substituted "parentage or" for "parentage," and struck out "or making or enforcing child custody or visitation orders," after "obligations,".
Subsec. (a)(2)(A)(iv). Pub. L. 105–200, §410(d)(3), realigned margins.
Subsec. (i)(2). Pub. L. 105–200, §402(b), amended heading and text of par. (2) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: "Information shall be entered into the data base maintained by the National Directory of New Hires within 2 business days of receipt pursuant to section 653a(g)(2) of this title."
Subsec. (l). Pub. L. 105–200, §402(a), as amended by Pub. L. 106–113, §1000(a)(5) [title III, §303(b)], designated existing provisions as par. (1), inserted heading, and added par. (2).
1997—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 105–33, §5534(a)(1), designated existing provisions as par. (1), substituted "for the purposes specified in paragraphs (2) and (3)." for "to obtain and transmit to any authorized person (as defined in subsection (c) of this section), for the purpose of establishing parentage, establishing, setting the amount of, modifying, or enforcing child support obligations, or enforcing child custody or visitation orders—", added pars. (2) and (3), and struck out former pars. (1) to (3) which read as follows:
"(1) information on, or facilitating the discovery of, the location of any individual—
"(A) who is under an obligation to pay child support or provide child custody or visitation rights;
"(B) against whom such an obligation is sought;
"(C) to whom such an obligation is owed,
including the individual's social security number (or numbers), most recent address, and the name, address, and employer identification number of the individual's employer;
"(2) information on the individual's wages (or other income) from, and benefits of, employment (including rights to or enrollment in group health care coverage); and
"(3) information on the type, status, location, and amount of any assets of, or debts owed by or to, any such individual."
Subsec. (a)(2). Pub. L. 105–89, §105(1)(A), inserted "or making or enforcing child custody or visitation orders," after "obligations," in introductory provisions.
Subsec. (a)(2)(A)(iv). Pub. L. 105–89, §105(1)(B), added cl. (iv).
Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 105–33, §5534(a)(2), amended subsec. (b) generally, revising and restating former provisions relating to disclosure of information to authorized persons as pars. (1) to (3).
Subsec. (c)(1). Pub. L. 105–33, §5534(a)(3)(A), struck out "or to seek to enforce orders providing child custody or visitation rights" after "spousal support".
Subsec. (c)(2). Pub. L. 105–33, §5534(a)(3)(B), inserted "or to serve as the initiating court in an action to seek an order" after "authority to issue an order" and struck out "or to issue an order against a resident parent for child custody or visitation rights" after "maintenance of a child".
Subsec. (c)(4). Pub. L. 105–89, §105(2), added par. (4).
Subsec. (h)(1). Pub. L. 105–33, §5553(1), inserted "and order" after "with respect to each case".
Subsec. (h)(2). Pub. L. 105–34, §1090(a)(2)(A), inserted at end "Beginning not later than October 1, 1999, the information referred to in paragraph (1) shall include the names and social security numbers of the children of such individuals."
Pub. L. 105–33, §5553(2), inserted "and order" after "case" in heading and "or an order" after "with respect to a case" and "or order" after "and the State or States which have the case" in text.
Subsec. (h)(3). Pub. L. 105–34, §1090(a)(2)(B), added par. (3).
Subsec. (j)(3)(B). Pub. L. 105–33, §5535(b)(1), substituted "components" for "registries".
Subsec. (j)(5). Pub. L. 105–33, §5535(a), inserted "data in each component of the Federal Parent Locator Service maintained under this section and to" before "information".
Subsec. (k)(2). Pub. L. 105–33, §5535(b)(2), substituted "section 653a(g)(2) of this title" for "subsection (j)(3) of this section".
Subsec. (o). Pub. L. 105–33, §5556(c), amended Pub. L. 104–208, §101(e) [title II, §215], generally. See 1996 Amendment note below.
Pub. L. 105–34, §5541(b), in heading substituted "Use of set-aside funds" for "Recovery of costs" and in text substituted "which shall be available for use by the Secretary, either directly or through grants, contracts, or interagency agreements," for "to cover costs incurred by the Secretary" and inserted at end "Amounts appropriated under this subsection for each of fiscal years 1997 through 2001 shall remain available until expended."
Subsec. (p). Pub. L. 105–33, §5543, substituted "of the parent" for "a child and the parent".
1996—Pub. L. 104–193, §316(e)(2), inserted "Federal" before "Parent Locator Service" in section catchline.
Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 104–193, §316(a)(1), (e)(1), inserted "Federal" before "Parent Locator Service", substituted ", for the purpose of establishing parentage, establishing, setting the amount of, modifying, or enforcing child support obligations, or enforcing child custody or visitation orders—" for "information as to the whereabouts of any absent parent when such information is to be used to locate such parent for the purpose of enforcing support obligations against such parent.", and added pars. (1) to (3).
Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 104–193, §316(a)(2), (e)(1), substituted "information described in subsection (a) of this section" for "social security account number (or numbers, if the individual involved has more than one such number) and the most recent address and place of employment of any absent parent", inserted "Federal" before "Parent Locator Service", and inserted at end of closing provisions "No information shall be disclosed to any person if the State has notified the Secretary that the State has reasonable evidence of domestic violence or child abuse and the disclosure of such information could be harmful to the custodial parent or the child of such parent. Information received or transmitted pursuant to this section shall be subject to the safeguard provisions contained in section 654(26) of this title."
Subsec. (c)(1). Pub. L. 104–193, §316(b)(1), substituted "support or to seek to enforce orders providing child custody or visitation rights" for "support".
Subsec. (c)(2). Pub. L. 104–193, §§316(b)(2), 395(d)(2)(A), substituted "a noncustodial parent" for "an absent parent" and "or to issue an order against a resident parent for child custody or visitation rights, or any agent of such court;" for ", or any agent of such court; and".
Subsec. (c)(3). Pub. L. 104–193, §395(d)(2)(A), substituted "a noncustodial parent" for "an absent parent".
Pub. L. 104–193, §108(c)(10), substituted "assistance under a State program funded under part A" for "aid under part A of this subchapter".
Subsec. (e)(2). Pub. L. 104–193, §316(c), inserted "in an amount which the Secretary determines to be reasonable payment for the information exchange (which amount shall not include payment for the costs of obtaining, compiling, or maintaining the information)" after "Secretary shall be reimbursed by him".
Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 104–193, §395(d)(1)(C), substituted "noncustodial" for "absent".
Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 104–193, §316(d), added subsec. (g).
Subsecs. (h) to (n). Pub. L. 104–193, §316(f), added subsecs. (h) to (n).
Subsec. (o). Pub. L. 104–208, title I, §101(e) [title II, §215], as amended by Pub. L. 105–33, §5556(c), substituted "a plan approved under this part" for "section 657(a) of this title".
Pub. L. 104–193, §345(a), added subsec. (o).
Subsec. (p). Pub. L. 104–193, §366, added subsec. (p).
1988—Subsec. (e)(3). Pub. L. 100–485 added par. (3).
1984—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 98–378, §19(a), inserted "the social security account number (or numbers, if the individual involved has more than one such number) and".
Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 98–369, §2663(j)(2)(B)(ix), substituted "Health and Human Services" for "Health, Education, and Welfare".
Subsec. (b)(2). Pub. L. 98–369, §2663(c)(13), substituted "of the United States" for ", or the United States".
Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 98–378, §17, struck out ", after determining that the absent parent cannot be located through the procedures under the control of such State agencies," before "to transmit to the Secretary".
1981—Subsec. (c)(1). Pub. L. 97–35 substituted "child and spousal support" for "child support".
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 2013 Amendment
Amendment by Pub. L. 113–37 effective Oct. 1, 2013, see section 4(a) of Pub. L. 113–37, set out as a note under section 322 of Title 38, Veterans' Benefits.
Effective Date of 2008 Amendment
Amendment of this section and repeal of Pub. L. 110–234 by Pub. L. 110–246 effective May 22, 2008, the date of enactment of Pub. L. 110–234, except as otherwise provided, see section 4 of Pub. L. 110–246, set out as an Effective Date note under section 8701 of Title 7, Agriculture.
Amendment by section 4002(b)(1)(A), (B), (2)(V) of Pub. L. 110–246 effective Oct. 1, 2008, see section 4407 of Pub. L. 110–246, set out as a note under section 1161 of Title 2, The Congress.
Effective Date of 2006 Amendment
Amendment by Pub. L. 109–171 effective as if enacted on Oct. 1, 2005, except as otherwise provided, see section 7701 of Pub. L. 109–171, set out as a note under section 603 of this title.
Effective Date of 1999 Amendment
Pub. L. 106–113, div. B, §1000(a)(5) [title III, §303(c)], Nov. 29, 1999, 113 Stat. 1536, 1501A-306, provided that: "The amendments made by this section [amending this section] shall become effective October 1, 1999."
Effective Date of 1998 Amendment
Pub. L. 105–200, title IV, §402(e), July 16, 1998, 112 Stat. 669, provided that: "The amendments made by this section [amending this section] shall take effect on October 1, 2000."
Effective Date of 1997 Amendment
Amendment by Pub. L. 105–89 effective Nov. 19, 1997, except as otherwise provided, with delay permitted if State legislation is required, see section 501 of Pub. L. 105–89, set out as a note under section 622 of this title.
Pub. L. 105–34, title X, §1090(a)(4), Aug. 5, 1997, 111 Stat. 962, provided that: "The amendments made by this subsection [amending this section and section 654a of this title] shall take effect on October 1, 1998."
Amendment by Pub. L. 105–33 effective as if included in the enactment of title III of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996, Pub. L. 104–193, see section 5557 of Pub. L. 105–33, set out as a note under section 608 of this title.
Effective Date of 1996 Amendment
Amounts available under subsec. (o) of this section to be calculated as though amendments made by section 101(e) [title II, §215] of Pub. L. 104–208 were effective Oct. 1, 1995, see section 101(e) [title II, §215] of Pub. L. 104–208, as amended, set out as a note under section 652 of this title.
Amendment by section 108(c)(10) of Pub. L. 104–193 effective July 1, 1997, with transition rules relating to State options to accelerate such date, rules relating to claims, actions, and proceedings commenced before such date, rules relating to closing out of accounts for terminated or substantially modified programs and continuance in office of Assistant Secretary for Family Support, and provisions relating to termination of entitlement under AFDC program, see section 116 of Pub. L. 104–193, as amended, set out as an Effective Date note under section 601 of this title.
For provisions relating to effective date of title III of Pub. L. 104–193, see section 395(a)–(c) of Pub. L. 104–193, set out as a note under section 654 of this title.
Effective Date of 1988 Amendment
Pub. L. 100–485, title I, §124(c), Oct. 13, 1988, 102 Stat. 2353, provided that:
"(1) Except as provided in paragraph (2), the amendments made by subsections (a) and (b) [amending this section and sections 503 and 504 of this title] shall become effective on the first day of the first calendar quarter which begins one year or more after the date of the enactment of this Act [Oct. 13, 1988].
"(2) The Secretary of Health and Human Services and the Secretary of Labor shall enter into the agreement required by the amendment made by subsection (a) [amending this section] not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act."
Effective Date of 1984 Amendment
Amendment by Pub. L. 98–369 effective July 18, 1984, but not to be construed as changing or affecting any right, liability, status, or interpretation which existed (under the provisions of law involved) before that date, see section 2664(b) of Pub. L. 98–369, set out as a note under section 401 of this title.
Effective Date of 1981 Amendment
Amendment by Pub. L. 97–35 effective Oct. 1, 1981, except as otherwise specifically provided, see section 2336 of Pub. L. 97–35, set out as a note under section 651 of this title.
Notice of Purposes for Which Wage and Salary Data Are To Be Used
Pub. L. 105–200, title IV, §402(c), July 16, 1998, 112 Stat. 669, provided that: "Within 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [July 16, 1998], the Secretary of Health and Human Services shall notify the Committee on Ways and Means of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Finance of the Senate of the specific purposes for which the new hire and the wage and unemployment compensation information in the National Directory of New Hires is to be used. At least 30 days before such information is to be used for a purpose not specified in the notice provided pursuant to the preceding sentence, the Secretary shall notify the Committee on Ways and Means of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Finance of the Senate of such purpose."
Report on Data Maintained by National Directory of New Hires
Pub. L. 105–200, title IV, §402(d), July 16, 1998, 112 Stat. 669, provided that: "Within 3 years after the date of the enactment of this Act [July 16, 1998], the Secretary of Health and Human Services shall submit to the Committee on Ways and Means of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Finance of the Senate a report on the accuracy of the data maintained by the National Directory of New Hires pursuant to section 453(i) of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 653(i)], and the effectiveness of the procedures designed to provide for the security of such data."
Coordination Between Secretaries Relating to Amendments by Pub. L. 105–34
Pub. L. 105–34, title X, §1090(a)(3), Aug. 5, 1997, 111 Stat. 961, provided that: "The Secretary of the Treasury and the Secretary of Health and Human Services shall consult regarding the implementation issues resulting from the amendments made by this subsection [amending this section and section 654a of this title], including interim deadlines for States that may be able before October 1, 1999, to provide the data required by such amendments. The Secretaries shall report to Congress on the results of such consultation."
Requirement for Cooperation
Pub. L. 104–193, title III, §316(h), Aug. 22, 1996, 110 Stat. 2220, provided that: "The Secretary of Labor and the Secretary of Health and Human Services shall work jointly to develop cost-effective and efficient methods of accessing the information in the various State directories of new hires and the National Directory of New Hires as established pursuant to the amendments made by this subtitle [subtitle B (§§311–317) of title III of Pub. L. 104–193, enacting sections 653a and 654b of this title and amending this section, sections 503, 654, 654a, 666, 1320b–7 of this title, and sections 3304 and 6103 of Title 26, Internal Revenue Code]. In developing these methods the Secretaries shall take into account the impact, including costs, on the States, and shall also consider the need to insure the proper and authorized use of wage record information."
Executive Documents
Executive Agencies To Facilitate Payment of Child Support
For provisions requiring Federal agencies to cooperate with Federal Parent Locator Service, see Ex. Ord. No. 12953, §303, Feb. 27, 1995, 60 F.R. 11014, set out as a note under section 659 of this title.
§653a. State Directory of New Hires
(a) Establishment
(1) In general
(A) Requirement for States that have no directory
Except as provided in subparagraph (B), not later than October 1, 1997, each State shall establish an automated directory (to be known as the "State Directory of New Hires") which shall contain information supplied in accordance with subsection (b) by employers on each newly hired employee.
(B) States with new hire reporting law in existence
A State which has a new hire reporting law in existence on August 22, 1996, may continue to operate under the State law, but the State must meet the requirements of subsection (g)(2) not later than October 1, 1997, and the requirements of this section (other than subsection (g)(2)) not later than October 1, 1998.
(2) Definitions
As used in this section:
(A) Employee
The term "employee"—
(i) means an individual who is an employee within the meaning of chapter 24 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986; and
(ii) does not include an employee of a Federal or State agency performing intelligence or counterintelligence functions, if the head of such agency has determined that reporting pursuant to paragraph (1) with respect to the employee could endanger the safety of the employee or compromise an ongoing investigation or intelligence mission.
(B) Employer
(i) In general
The term "employer" has the meaning given such term in section 3401(d) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 and includes any governmental entity and any labor organization.
(ii) Labor organization
The term "labor organization" shall have the meaning given such term in section 152(5) of title 29, and includes any entity (also known as a "hiring hall") which is used by the organization and an employer to carry out requirements described in section 158(f)(3) of title 29 of an agreement between the organization and the employer.
(C) Newly hired employee
The term "newly hired employee" means an employee who—
(i) has not previously been employed by the employer; or
(ii) was previously employed by the employer but has been separated from such prior employment for at least 60 consecutive days.
(b) Employer information
(1) Reporting requirement
(A) In general
Except as provided in subparagraphs (B) and (C), each employer shall furnish to the Directory of New Hires of the State in which a newly hired employee works, a report that contains the name, address, and social security number of the employee, the date services for remuneration were first performed by the employee, and the name and address of, and identifying number assigned under section 6109 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to, the employer.
(B) Multistate employers
An employer that has employees who are employed in 2 or more States and that transmits reports magnetically or electronically may comply with subparagraph (A) by designating 1 State in which such employer has employees to which the employer will transmit the report described in subparagraph (A), and transmitting such report to such State. Any employer that transmits reports pursuant to this subparagraph shall notify the Secretary in writing as to which State such employer designates for the purpose of sending reports.
(C) Federal Government employers
Any department, agency, or instrumentality of the United States shall comply with subparagraph (A) by transmitting the report described in subparagraph (A) to the National Directory of New Hires established pursuant to section 653 of this title.
(2) Timing of report
Each State may provide the time within which the report required by paragraph (1) shall be made with respect to an employee, but such report shall be made—
(A) not later than 20 days after the date the employer hires the employee; or
(B) in the case of an employer transmitting reports magnetically or electronically, by 2 monthly transmissions (if necessary) not less than 12 days nor more than 16 days apart.
(c) Reporting format and method
Each report required by subsection (b) shall, to the extent practicable, be made on a W–4 form or, at the option of the employer, an equivalent form, and may be transmitted by 1st class mail, magnetically, or electronically.
(d) Civil money penalties on noncomplying employers
The State shall have the option to set a State civil money penalty which shall not exceed—
(1) $25 per failure to meet the requirements of this section with respect to a newly hired employee; or
(2) $500 if, under State law, the failure is the result of a conspiracy between the employer and the employee to not supply the required report or to supply a false or incomplete report.
(e) Entry of employer information
Information shall be entered into the data base maintained by the State Directory of New Hires within 5 business days of receipt from an employer pursuant to subsection (b).
(f) Information comparisons
(1) In general
Not later than May 1, 1998, an agency designated by the State shall, directly or by contract, conduct automated comparisons of the social security numbers reported by employers pursuant to subsection (b) and the social security numbers appearing in the records of the State case registry for cases being enforced under the State plan.
(2) Notice of match
When an information comparison conducted under paragraph (1) reveals a match with respect to the social security number of an individual required to provide support under a support order, the State Directory of New Hires shall provide the agency administering the State plan approved under this part of the appropriate State with the name, address, and social security number of the employee to whom the social security number is assigned, and the name and address of, and identifying number assigned under section 6109 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to, the employer.
(g) Transmission of information
(1) Transmission of wage withholding notices to employers
Within 2 business days after the date information regarding a newly hired employee is entered into the State Directory of New Hires, the State agency enforcing the employee's child support obligation shall transmit a notice to the employer of the employee directing the employer to withhold from the income of the employee an amount equal to the monthly (or other periodic) child support obligation (including any past due support obligation) of the employee, unless the employee's income is not subject to withholding pursuant to section 666(b)(3) of this title.
(2) Transmissions to the National Directory of New Hires
(A) New hire information
Within 3 business days after the date information regarding a newly hired employee is entered into the State Directory of New Hires, the State Directory of New Hires shall furnish the information to the National Directory of New Hires.
(B) Wage and unemployment compensation information
The State Directory of New Hires shall, on a quarterly basis, furnish to the National Directory of New Hires information concerning the wages and unemployment compensation paid to individuals, by such dates, in such format, and containing such information as the Secretary of Health and Human Services shall specify in regulations.
(3) "Business day" defined
As used in this subsection, the term "business day" means a day on which State offices are open for regular business.
(h) Other uses of new hire information
(1) Location of child support obligors
The agency administering the State plan approved under this part shall use information received pursuant to subsection (f)(2) to locate individuals for purposes of establishing paternity and establishing, modifying, and enforcing child support obligations, and may disclose such information to any agent of the agency that is under contract with the agency to carry out such purposes.
(2) Verification of eligibility for certain programs
A State agency responsible for administering a program specified in section 1320b–7(b) of this title shall have access to information reported by employers pursuant to subsection (b) of this section for purposes of verifying eligibility for the program.
(3) Administration of employment security and workers' compensation
State agencies operating employment security and workers' compensation programs shall have access to information reported by employers pursuant to subsection (b) for the purposes of administering such programs.
(4) Veteran employment
The Secretaries of Labor and of Veterans Affairs shall have access to information reported by employers pursuant to subsection (b) of this section for purposes of tracking employment of veterans.
(Aug. 14, 1935, ch. 531, title IV, §453A, as added Pub. L. 104–193, title III, §313(b), Aug. 22, 1996, 110 Stat. 2209; amended Pub. L. 105–33, title V, §5533, Aug. 5, 1997, 111 Stat. 627; Pub. L. 111–291, title VIII, §802(a), (b), Dec. 8, 2010, 124 Stat. 3157; Pub. L. 112–40, title II, §253(a), Oct. 21, 2011, 125 Stat. 422; Pub. L. 116–315, title IV, §4301, Jan. 5, 2021, 134 Stat. 5016.)
Editorial Notes
References in Text
The Internal Revenue Code of 1986, referred to in subsecs. (a)(2), (b)(1)(A), and (f)(2), is classified generally to Title 26, Internal Revenue Code.
Amendments
2021—Subsec. (h)(4). Pub. L. 116–315 added par. (4).
2011—Subsec. (a)(2)(C). Pub. L. 112–40 added subpar. (C).
2010—Subsec. (b)(1)(A). Pub. L. 111–291, §802(a), inserted "the date services for remuneration were first performed by the employee," after "of the employee,".
Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 111–291, §802(b), inserted ", to the extent practicable," after "Each report required by subsection (b) shall".
1997—Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 105–33, §5533(1), substituted "shall not exceed" for "shall be less than" in introductory provisions and "$25 per failure to meet the requirements of this section with respect to a newly hired employee" for "$25" in par. (1).
Subsec. (g)(2)(B). Pub. L. 105–33, §5533(2), substituted "information" for "extracts of the reports required under section 503(a)(6) of this title to be made to the Secretary of Labor".
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 2011 Amendment
Pub. L. 112–40, title II, §253(b), Oct. 21, 2011, 125 Stat. 422, provided that:
"(1) In general.—Subject to paragraph (2), the amendments made by this section [amending this section] shall take effect 6 months after the date of the enactment of this Act [Oct. 21, 2011].
"(2) Compliance transition period.—If the Secretary of Health and Human Services determines that State legislation (other than legislation appropriating funds) is required in order for a State plan under part D of title IV of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 651 et seq.] to meet the additional requirement imposed by the amendment made by subsection (a) [amending this section], the plan shall not be regarded as failing to meet such requirement before the first day of the second calendar quarter beginning after the close of the first regular session of the State legislature that begins after the effective date of such amendment. If the State has a 2-year legislative session, each year of the session is deemed to be a separate regular session of the State legislature."
Effective Date of 2010 Amendment
Pub. L. 111–291, title VIII, §802(c), Dec. 8, 2010, 124 Stat. 3157, provided that:
"(1) In general.—Subject to paragraph (2), the amendments made by this section [amending this section] shall take effect 6 months after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 8, 2010].
"(2) Compliance transition period.—If the Secretary of Health and Human Services determines that State legislation (other than legislation appropriating funds) is required in order for a State plan under part D of title IV of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 651 et seq.] to meet the additional requirements imposed by the amendment made by subsection (a), the plan shall not be regarded as failing to meet such requirements before the first day of the second calendar quarter beginning after the close of the first regular session of the State legislature that begins after the effective date of such amendment. If the State has a 2-year legislative session, each year of the session is deemed to be a separate regular session of the State legislature."
Effective Date of 1997 Amendment
Amendment by Pub. L. 105–33 effective as if included in the enactment of title III of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996, Pub. L. 104–193, see section 5557 of Pub. L. 105–33, set out as a note under section 608 of this title.
Effective Date
For effective date of section, see section 395(a)–(c) of Pub. L. 104–193, set out as an Effective Date of 1996 Amendment note under section 654 of this title.
§654. State plan for child and spousal support
A State plan for child and spousal support must—
(1) provide that it shall be in effect in all political subdivisions of the State;
(2) provide for financial participation by the State;
(3) provide for the establishment or designation of a single and separate organizational unit, which meets such staffing and organizational requirements as the Secretary may by regulation prescribe, within the State to administer the plan;
(4) provide that the State will—
(A) provide services relating to the establishment of paternity or the establishment, modification, or enforcement of child support obligations, as appropriate, under the plan with respect to—
(i) each child for whom (I) assistance is provided under the State program funded under part A of this subchapter, (II) benefits or services for foster care maintenance are provided under the State program funded under part E of this subchapter, (III) medical assistance is provided under the State plan approved under subchapter XIX, or (IV) cooperation is required pursuant to section 2015(l)(1) of title 7, unless, in accordance with paragraph (29), good cause or other exceptions exist;
(ii) any other child, if an individual applies for such services with respect to the child (except that, if the individual applying for the services resides in a foreign reciprocating country or foreign treaty country, the State may opt to require the individual to request the services through the Central Authority for child support enforcement in the foreign reciprocating country or the foreign treaty country, and if the individual resides in a foreign country that is not a foreign reciprocating country or a foreign treaty country, a State may accept or reject the application); and
(B) enforce any support obligation established with respect to—
(i) a child with respect to whom the State provides services under the plan; or
(ii) the custodial parent of such a child;
(5) provide that (A) in any case in which support payments are collected for an individual with respect to whom an assignment pursuant to section 608(a)(3) of this title is effective, such payments shall be made to the State for distribution pursuant to section 657 of this title and shall not be paid directly to the family, and the individual will be notified on a monthly basis (or on a quarterly basis for so long as the Secretary determines with respect to a State that requiring such notice on a monthly basis would impose an unreasonable administrative burden) of the amount of the support payments collected, and (B) in any case in which support payments are collected for an individual pursuant to the assignment made under section 1396k of this title, such payments shall be made to the State for distribution pursuant to section 1396k of this title, except that this clause shall not apply to such payments for any month after the month in which the individual ceases to be eligible for medical assistance;
(6) provide that—
(A) services under the plan shall be made available to residents of other States on the same terms as to residents of the State submitting the plan;
(B)(i) an application fee for furnishing such services shall be imposed on an individual, other than an individual receiving assistance under a State program funded under part A or E, or under a State plan approved under subchapter XIX, or who is required by the State to cooperate with the State agency administering the program under this part pursuant to subsection (l) or (m) of section 2015 of title 7, and shall be paid by the individual applying for such services, or recovered from the absent parent, or paid by the State out of its own funds (the payment of which from State funds shall not be considered as an administrative cost of the State for the operation of the plan, and shall be considered income to the program), the amount of which (I) will not exceed $25 (or such higher or lower amount (which shall be uniform for all States) as the Secretary may determine to be appropriate for any fiscal year to reflect increases or decreases in administrative costs), and (II) may vary among such individuals on the basis of ability to pay (as determined by the State); and
(ii) in the case of an individual who has never received assistance under a State program funded under part A and for whom the State has collected at least $550 of support, the State shall impose an annual fee of $35 for each case in which services are furnished, which shall be retained by the State from support collected on behalf of the individual (but not from the first $550 so collected), paid by the individual applying for the services, recovered from the absent parent, or paid by the State out of its own funds (the payment of which from State funds shall not be considered as an administrative cost of the State for the operation of the plan, and the fees shall be considered income to the program);
(C) a fee of not more than $25 may be imposed in any case where the State requests the Secretary of the Treasury to withhold past-due support owed to or on behalf of such individual from a tax refund pursuant to section 664(a)(2) of this title;
(D) a fee (in accordance with regulations of the Secretary) for performing genetic tests may be imposed on any individual who is not a recipient of assistance under a State program funded under part A; and
(E) any costs in excess of the fees so imposed may be collected—
(i) from the parent who owes the child or spousal support obligation involved; or
(ii) at the option of the State, from the individual to whom such services are made available, but only if such State has in effect a procedure whereby all persons in such State having authority to order child or spousal support are informed that such costs are to be collected from the individual to whom such services were made available;
(7) provide for entering into cooperative arrangements with appropriate courts and law enforcement officials and Indian tribes or tribal organizations (as defined in subsections (e) and (l) of section 5304 of title 25) (A) to assist the agency administering the plan, including the entering into of financial arrangements with such courts and officials in order to assure optimum results under such program, and (B) with respect to any other matters of common concern to such courts or officials and the agency administering the plan;
(8) provide that, for the purpose of establishing parentage, establishing, setting the amount of, modifying, or enforcing child support obligations, or making or enforcing a child custody or visitation determination, as defined in section 663(d)(1) of this title the agency administering the plan will establish a service to locate parents utilizing—
(A) all sources of information and available records; and
(B) the Federal Parent Locator Service established under section 653 of this title,
and shall, subject to the privacy safeguards required under paragraph (26), disclose only the information described in sections 653 and 663 of this title to the authorized persons specified in such sections for the purposes specified in such sections;
(9) provide that the State will, in accordance with standards prescribed by the Secretary, cooperate with any other State—
(A) in establishing paternity, if necessary;
(B) in locating a noncustodial parent residing in the State (whether or not permanently) against whom any action is being taken under a program established under a plan approved under this part in another State;
(C) in securing compliance by a noncustodial parent residing in such State (whether or not permanently) with an order issued by a court of competent jurisdiction against such parent for the support and maintenance of the child or children or the parent of such child or children with respect to whom aid is being provided under the plan of such other State;
(D) in carrying out other functions required under a plan approved under this part; and
(E) not later than March 1, 1997, in using the forms promulgated pursuant to section 652(a)(11) of this title for income withholding, imposition of liens, and issuance of administrative subpoenas in interstate child support cases;
(10) provide that the State will maintain a full record of collections and disbursements made under the plan and have an adequate reporting system;
(11)(A) provide that amounts collected as support shall be distributed as provided in section 657 of this title; and
(B) provide that any payment required to be made under section 656 or 657 of this title to a family shall be made to the resident parent, legal guardian, or caretaker relative having custody of or responsibility for the child or children;
(12) provide for the establishment of procedures to require the State to provide individuals who are applying for or receiving services under the State plan, or who are parties to cases in which services are being provided under the State plan—
(A) with notice of all proceedings in which support obligations might be established or modified; and
(B) with a copy of any order establishing or modifying a child support obligation, or (in the case of a petition for modification) a notice of determination that there should be no change in the amount of the child support award, within 14 days after issuance of such order or determination;
(13) provide that the State will comply with such other requirements and standards as the Secretary determines to be necessary to the establishment of an effective program for locating noncustodial parents, establishing paternity, obtaining support orders, and collecting support payments and provide that information requests by parents who are residents of other States be treated with the same priority as requests by parents who are residents of the State submitting the plan;
(14)(A) comply with such bonding requirements, for employees who receive, disburse, handle, or have access to, cash, as the Secretary shall by regulations prescribe;
(B) maintain methods of administration which are designed to assure that persons responsible for handling cash receipts shall not participate in accounting or operating functions which would permit them to conceal in the accounting records the misuse of cash receipts (except that the Secretary shall by regulations provide for exceptions to this requirement in the case of sparsely populated areas where the hiring of unreasonable additional staff would otherwise be necessary);
(15) provide for—
(A) a process for annual reviews of and reports to the Secretary on the State program operated under the State plan approved under this part, including such information as may be necessary to measure State compliance with Federal requirements for expedited procedures, using such standards and procedures as are required by the Secretary, under which the State agency will determine the extent to which the program is operated in compliance with this part; and
(B) a process of extracting from the automated data processing system required by paragraph (16) and transmitting to the Secretary data and calculations concerning the levels of accomplishment (and rates of improvement) with respect to applicable performance indicators (including paternity establishment percentages) to the extent necessary for purposes of sections 652(g) and 658a of this title;
(16) provide for the establishment and operation by the State agency, in accordance with an (initial and annually updated) advance automated data processing planning document approved under section 652(d) of this title, of a statewide automated data processing and information retrieval system meeting the requirements of section 654a of this title designed effectively and efficiently to assist management in the administration of the State plan, so as to control, account for, and monitor all the factors in the support enforcement collection and paternity determination process under such plan;
(17) provide that the State will have in effect an agreement with the Secretary entered into pursuant to section 663 of this title for the use of the Parent Locator Service established under section 653 of this title, and provide that the State will accept and transmit to the Secretary requests for information authorized under the provisions of the agreement to be furnished by such Service to authorized persons, will impose and collect (in accordance with regulations of the Secretary) a fee sufficient to cover the costs to the State and to the Secretary incurred by reason of such requests, will transmit to the Secretary from time to time (in accordance with such regulations) so much of the fees collected as are attributable to such costs to the Secretary so incurred, and during the period that such agreement is in effect will otherwise comply with such agreement and regulations of the Secretary with respect thereto;
(18) provide that the State has in effect procedures necessary to obtain payment of past-due support from overpayments made to the Secretary of the Treasury as set forth in section 664 of this title, and take all steps necessary to implement and utilize such procedures;
(19) provide that the agency administering the plan—
(A) shall determine on a periodic basis, from information supplied pursuant to section 508 of the Unemployment Compensation Amendments of 1976, whether any individuals receiving compensation under the State's unemployment compensation law (including amounts payable pursuant to any agreement under any Federal unemployment compensation law) owe child support obligations which are being enforced by such agency; and
(B) shall enforce any such child support obligations which are owed by such an individual but are not being met—
(i) through an agreement with such individual to have specified amounts withheld from compensation otherwise payable to such individual and by submitting a copy of any such agreement to the State agency administering the unemployment compensation law; or
(ii) in the absence of such an agreement, by bringing legal process (as defined in section 659(i)(5) of this title) to require the withholding of amounts from such compensation;
(20) provide, to the extent required by section 666 of this title, that the State (A) shall have in effect all of the laws to improve child support enforcement effectiveness which are referred to in that section, and (B) shall implement the procedures which are prescribed in or pursuant to such laws;
(21)(A) at the option of the State, impose a late payment fee on all overdue support (as defined in section 666(e) of this title) under any obligation being enforced under this part, in an amount equal to a uniform percentage determined by the State (not less than 3 percent nor more than 6 percent) of the overdue support, which shall be payable by the noncustodial parent owing the overdue support; and
(B) assure that the fee will be collected in addition to, and only after full payment of, the overdue support, and that the imposition of the late payment fee shall not directly or indirectly result in a decrease in the amount of the support which is paid to the child (or spouse) to whom, or on whose behalf, it is owed;
(22) in order for the State to be eligible to receive any incentive payments under section 658a of this title, provide that, if one or more political subdivisions of the State participate in the costs of carrying out activities under the State plan during any period, each such subdivision shall be entitled to receive an appropriate share (as determined by the State) of any such incentive payments made to the State for such period, taking into account the efficiency and effectiveness of the activities carried out under the State plan by such political subdivision;
(23) provide that the State will regularly and frequently publicize, through public service announcements, the availability of child support enforcement services under the plan and otherwise, including information as to any application fees for such services and a telephone number or postal address at which further information may be obtained and will publicize the availability and encourage the use of procedures for voluntary establishment of paternity and child support by means the State deems appropriate;
(24) provide that the State will have in effect an automated data processing and information retrieval system—
(A) by October 1, 1997, which meets all requirements of this part which were enacted on or before October 13, 1988; and
(B) by October 1, 2000, which meets all requirements of this part enacted on or before August 22, 1996, except that such deadline shall be extended by 1 day for each day (if any) by which the Secretary fails to meet the deadline imposed by section 344(a)(3) of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996;
(25) provide that if a family with respect to which services are provided under the plan ceases to receive assistance under the State program funded under part A, the State shall provide appropriate notice to the family and continue to provide such services, subject to the same conditions and on the same basis as in the case of other individuals to whom services are furnished under the plan, except that an application or other request to continue services shall not be required of such a family and paragraph (6)(B) shall not apply to the family;
(26) have in effect safeguards, applicable to all confidential information handled by the State agency, that are designed to protect the privacy rights of the parties, including—
(A) safeguards against unauthorized use or disclosure of information relating to proceedings or actions to establish paternity, or to establish, modify, or enforce support, or to make or enforce a child custody determination;
(B) prohibitions against the release of information on the whereabouts of 1 party or the child to another party against whom a protective order with respect to the former party or the child has been entered;
(C) prohibitions against the release of information on the whereabouts of 1 party or the child to another person if the State has reason to believe that the release of the information to that person may result in physical or emotional harm to the party or the child;
(D) in cases in which the prohibitions under subparagraphs (B) and (C) apply, the requirement to notify the Secretary, for purposes of section 653(b)(2) of this title, that the State has reasonable evidence of domestic violence or child abuse against a party or the child and that the disclosure of such information could be harmful to the party or the child; and
(E) procedures providing that when the Secretary discloses information about a parent or child to a State court or an agent of a State court described in section 653(c)(2) or 663(d)(2)(B) of this title, and advises that court or agent that the Secretary has been notified that there is reasonable evidence of domestic violence or child abuse pursuant to section 653(b)(2) of this title, the court shall determine whether disclosure to any other person of information received from the Secretary could be harmful to the parent or child and, if the court determines that disclosure to any other person could be harmful, the court and its agents shall not make any such disclosure;
(27) provide that, on and after October 1, 1998, the State agency will—
(A) operate a State disbursement unit in accordance with section 654b of this title; and
(B) have sufficient State staff (consisting of State employees) and (at State option) contractors reporting directly to the State agency to—
(i) monitor and enforce support collections through the unit in cases being enforced by the State pursuant to paragraph (4) (including carrying out the automated data processing responsibilities described in section 654a(g) of this title); and
(ii) take the actions described in section 666(c)(1) of this title in appropriate cases;
(28) provide that, on and after October 1, 1997, the State will operate a State Directory of New Hires in accordance with section 653a of this title;
(29) provide that the State agency responsible for administering the State plan—
(A) shall make the determination (and redetermination at appropriate intervals) as to whether an individual who has applied for or is receiving assistance under the State program funded under part A, the State program under part E, the State program under subchapter XIX, or the supplemental nutrition assistance program, as defined under section 2012(l) 1 of title 7, is cooperating in good faith with the State in establishing the paternity of, or in establishing, modifying, or enforcing a support order for, any child of the individual by providing the State agency with the name of, and such other information as the State agency may require with respect to, the noncustodial parent of the child, subject to good cause and other exceptions which—
(i) in the case of the State program funded under part A, the State program under part E, or the State program under subchapter XIX shall, at the option of the State, be defined, taking into account the best interests of the child, and applied in each case, by the State agency administering such program; and
(ii) in the case of the supplemental nutrition assistance program, as defined under section 2012(l) 1 of title 7, shall be defined and applied in each case under that program in accordance with section 2015(l)(2) of title 7;
(B) shall require the individual to supply additional necessary information and appear at interviews, hearings, and legal proceedings;
(C) shall require the individual and the child to submit to genetic tests pursuant to judicial or administrative order;
(D) may request that the individual sign a voluntary acknowledgment of paternity, after notice of the rights and consequences of such an acknowledgment, but may not require the individual to sign an acknowledgment or otherwise relinquish the right to genetic tests as a condition of cooperation and eligibility for assistance under the State program funded under part A, the State program under part E, the State program under subchapter XIX, or the supplemental nutrition assistance program, as defined under section 2012(l) 1 of title 7; and
(E) shall promptly notify the individual and the State agency administering the State program funded under part A, the State agency administering the State program under part E, the State agency administering the State program under subchapter XIX, or the State agency administering the supplemental nutrition assistance program, as defined under section 2012(l) 1 of title 7, of each such determination, and if noncooperation is determined, the basis therefor;
(30) provide that the State shall use the definitions established under section 652(a)(5) of this title in collecting and reporting information as required under this part;
(31) provide that the State agency will have in effect a procedure for certifying to the Secretary, for purposes of the procedure under section 652(k) of this title, determinations that individuals owe arrearages of child support in an amount exceeding $2,500, under which procedure—
(A) each individual concerned is afforded notice of such determination and the consequences thereof, and an opportunity to contest the determination; and
(B) the certification by the State agency is furnished to the Secretary in such format, and accompanied by such supporting documentation, as the Secretary may require;
(32)(A) provide that any request for services under this part by a foreign reciprocating country, a foreign treaty country, or a foreign country with which the State has an arrangement described in section 659a(d) of this title shall be treated as a request by a State;
(B) provide, at State option, notwithstanding paragraph (4) or any other provision of this part, for services under the plan for enforcement of a spousal support order not described in paragraph (4)(B) entered by such a country (or subdivision); and
(C) provide that no applications will be required from, and no costs will be assessed for such services against, the foreign reciprocating country, foreign treaty country, or foreign individual (but costs may at State option be assessed against the obligor);
(33) provide that a State that receives funding pursuant to section 628 of this title and that has within its borders Indian country (as defined in section 1151 of title 18) may enter into cooperative agreements with an Indian tribe or tribal organization (as defined in subsections (e) and (l) of section 5304 of title 25), if the Indian tribe or tribal organization demonstrates that such tribe or organization has an established tribal court system or a Court of Indian Offenses with the authority to establish paternity, establish, modify, or enforce support orders, or to enter support orders in accordance with child support guidelines established or adopted by such tribe or organization, under which the State and tribe or organization shall provide for the cooperative delivery of child support enforcement services in Indian country and for the forwarding of all collections pursuant to the functions performed by the tribe or organization to the State agency, or conversely, by the State agency to the tribe or organization, which shall distribute such collections in accordance with such agreement; and
(34) include an election by the State to apply section 657(a)(2)(B) of this title or former section 657(a)(2)(B) of this title (as in effect for the State immediately before the date this paragraph first applies to the State) to the distribution of the amounts which are the subject of such sections and, for so long as the State elects to so apply such former section, the amendments made by subsection (b)(1) of section 7301 of the Deficit Reduction Act of 2005 shall not apply with respect to the State, notwithstanding subsection (e) of such section 7301.
The State may allow the jurisdiction which makes the collection involved to retain any application fee under paragraph (6)(B) or any late payment fee under paragraph (21). Nothing in paragraph (33) shall void any provision of any cooperative agreement entered into before August 22, 1996, nor shall such paragraph deprive any State of jurisdiction over Indian country (as so defined) that is lawfully exercised under section 1322 of title 25.
(Aug. 14, 1935, ch. 531, title IV, §454, as added Pub. L. 93–647, §101(a), Jan. 4, 1975, 88 Stat. 2354; amended Pub. L. 94–88, title II, §208(b), (c), Aug. 9, 1975, 89 Stat. 436; Pub. L. 95–30, title V, §502(a), May 23, 1977, 91 Stat. 162; Pub. L. 96–265, title IV, §405(b), June 9, 1980, 94 Stat. 463; Pub. L. 96–611, §9(a), Dec. 28, 1980, 94 Stat. 3571; Pub. L. 97–35, title XXIII, §§2331(b), 2332(d), 2333(a), (b), 2335(a), Aug. 13, 1981, 95 Stat. 860, 862, 863; Pub. L. 97–248, title I, §§171(a), (b)(1), 173(a), Sept. 3, 1982, 96 Stat. 401, 403; Pub. L. 98–369, div. B, title VI, §2663(c)(14), (j)(2)(B)(x), July 18, 1984, 98 Stat. 1166, 1170; Pub. L. 98–378, §§3(a), (c)–(f), 5(b), 6(a), 11(b)(1), 12(a), (b), 14(a), 21(d), Aug. 16, 1984, 98 Stat. 1306, 1310, 1311, 1314, 1318, 1319, 1320, 1324; Pub. L. 100–203, title IX, §§9141(a)(2), 9142(a), Dec. 22, 1987, 101 Stat. 1330–321; Pub. L. 100–485, title I, §§104(a), 111(c), 123(a), (d), Oct. 13, 1988, 102 Stat. 2348, 2349, 2352, 2353; Pub. L. 104–35, §1(a), Oct. 12, 1995, 109 Stat. 294; Pub. L. 104–193, title I, §108(c)(11), (12), title III, §§301(a), (b), 302(b)(2), 303(a), 304(a), 312(a), 313(a), 316(g)(1), 324(b), 332, 333, 342(a), 343(b), 344(a)(1), (4), 370(a)(2), 371(b), 375(a), (c), 395(d)(1)(D), (2)(B), Aug. 22, 1996, 110 Stat. 2166, 2199, 2204, 2205, 2207, 2209, 2218, 2223, 2230, 2233, 2234, 2236, 2252, 2254, 2256, 2259, 2260; Pub. L. 105–33, title V, §§5531(a), 5542(c), 5545, 5546(a), 5548, 5552, 5556(b), Aug. 5, 1997, 111 Stat. 625, 631, 633, 635, 637; Pub. L. 106–169, title IV, §401(g), (h), Dec. 14, 1999, 113 Stat. 1858; Pub. L. 109–171, title VII, §§7301(b)(1)(C), 7303(b), 7310(a), Feb. 8, 2006, 120 Stat. 143, 145, 147; Pub. L. 110–234, title IV, §§4002(b)(1)(A), (B), (2)(V), 4115(c)(2)(H), May 22, 2008, 122 Stat. 1095–1097, 1110; Pub. L. 110–246, §4(a), title IV, §§4002(b)(1)(A), (B), (2)(V), 4115(c)(2)(H), June 18, 2008, 122 Stat. 1664, 1857, 1858, 1871; Pub. L. 113–79, title IV, §4030(v), Feb. 7, 2014, 128 Stat. 815; Pub. L. 113–183, title III, §301(c), Sept. 29, 2014, 128 Stat. 1943; Pub. L. 115–123, div. E, title XII, §53117(a), Feb. 9, 2018, 132 Stat. 307.)
Editorial Notes
References in Text
Section 508 of the Unemployment Compensation Amendments of 1976, referred to in par. (19), is section 508 of Pub. L. 94–566, Oct. 20, 1976, 90 Stat. 2689, which enacted section 603a of this title and amended section 49b of Title 29, Labor.
Section 344(a)(3) of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996, referred to in par. (24), is section 344(a)(3) of Pub. L. 104–193, which is set out as a Regulations note under section 654a of this title.
Section 2012(l) of title 7, referred to in par. (29), was struck out, and a new section 2012(t) of title 7 similarly defining "supplemental nutrition assistance program" was enacted, by Pub. L. 113–79, title IV, §4030(a)(3), (5), Feb. 7, 2014, 128 Stat. 813.
Section 7301 of the Deficit Reduction Act of 2005, referred to in par. (34), is section 7301 of Pub. L. 109–171, title VII, Feb. 8, 2006, 120 Stat. 141. Subsec. (b)(1) of section 7301 of Pub. L. 109–171 amended this section and section 657 of this title. Subsec. (e) of section 7301 of Pub. L. 109–171 is set out as an Effective Date of 2006 Amendment note under section 608 of this title.
Codification
Pub. L. 110–234 and Pub. L. 110–246 made identical amendments to this section. The amendments by Pub. L. 110–234 were repealed by section 4(a) of Pub. L. 110–246.
Amendments
2018—Par. (6)(B)(ii). Pub. L. 115–123 substituted "$35" for "$25" and, in two places, substituted "$550" for "$500".
2014—Par. (4)(A)(ii). Pub. L. 113–183, §301(c)(1), inserted before semicolon "(except that, if the individual applying for the services resides in a foreign reciprocating country or foreign treaty country, the State may opt to require the individual to request the services through the Central Authority for child support enforcement in the foreign reciprocating country or the foreign treaty country, and if the individual resides in a foreign country that is not a foreign reciprocating country or a foreign treaty country, a State may accept or reject the application)".
Par. (29)(A), (D), (E). Pub. L. 113–79, §4030(v), amended Pub. L. 110–246, §4115(c)(2)(H). See 2008 Amendment note below.
Par. (32)(A). Pub. L. 113–183, §301(c)(2)(A), inserted ", a foreign treaty country," after "a foreign reciprocating country".
Par. (32)(C). Pub. L. 113–183, §301(c)(2)(B), substituted ", foreign treaty country, or foreign individual" for "or foreign obligee".
2008—Pars. (4)(A)(i)(IV), (6)(B)(i). Pub. L. 110–246, §4002(b)(1)(B), (2)(V), made technical amendment to references in original act which appear in text as references to sections 2015(l)(1) and 2015 of title 7.
Par. (29)(A), (D), (E). Pub. L. 110–246, §4115(c)(2)(H), as amended by Pub. L. 113–79, §4030(v), substituted "section 2012(l)" for "section 2012(h)" wherever appearing.
Pub. L. 110–246, §4002(b)(1)(A), (B), (2)(V), substituted "supplemental nutrition assistance program" for "food stamp program" wherever appearing and made technical amendment to references in original act which appear in text as references to sections 2012(h) and 2015(l)(2) of title 7.
2006—Par. (6)(B). Pub. L. 109–171, §7310(a), designated existing provisions as cl. (i), redesignated former cls. (i) and (ii) as subcls. (I) and (II), respectively, of cl. (i), and added cl. (ii).
Par. (31). Pub. L. 109–171, §7303(b), substituted "$2,500" for "$5,000" in introductory provisions.
Par. (34). Pub. L. 109–171, §7301(b)(1)(C), added par. (34).
1999—Par. (6)(E)(i). Pub. L. 106–169, §401(g)(1), substituted "; or" for ", or" at end.
Par. (9)(A) to (C). Pub. L. 106–169, §401(g)(2), substituted semicolon for comma at end.
Par. (19)(A). Pub. L. 106–169, §401(g)(3), substituted "; and" for ", and" at end.
Par. (19)(B)(i). Pub. L. 106–169, §401(g)(1), substituted "; or" for ", or" at end.
Par. (24)(A). Pub. L. 106–169, §401(g)(3), substituted "; and" for ", and" at end.
Par. (24)(B). Pub. L. 106–169, §401(h), made technical amendment to reference in original act which appears in text as reference to August 22, 1996.
1997—Par. (4)(A)(i)(IV). Pub. L. 105–33, §5548(a), added subcl. (IV).
Par. (6)(B). Pub. L. 105–33, §5531(a), substituted "an individual, other than an individual receiving assistance under a State program funded under part A or E, or under a State plan approved under subchapter XIX, or who is required by the State to cooperate with the State agency administering the program under this part pursuant to subsection (l) or (m) of section 2015 of title 7, and" for "individuals not receiving assistance under any State program funded under part A, which".
Par. (8). Pub. L. 105–33, §5552(1)(D), inserted concluding provisions.
Pub. L. 105–33, §5552(1)(A), in introductory provisions, inserted ", for the purpose of establishing parentage, establishing, setting the amount of, modifying, or enforcing child support obligations, or making or enforcing a child custody or visitation determination, as defined in section 663(d)(1) of this title" after "provide that" and struck out "noncustodial" before "parents".
Par. (8)(A). Pub. L. 105–33, §5552(1)(B), substituted "records; and" for "records, and".
Par. (8)(B). Pub. L. 105–33, §5552(1)(C), substituted "title," for "title;".
Par. (16). Pub. L. 105–33, §5556(b), made technical amendment to directory language of Pub. L. 104–193, §344(a)(1)(F). See 1996 Amendment note below.
Par. (17). Pub. L. 105–33, §5552(2), substituted "provide that the State will have" for "in the case of a State which has" and inserted "and" after "section 653 of this title,".
Par. (19)(B)(ii). Pub. L. 105–33, §5542(c), substituted "section 659(i)(5)" for "section 662(e)".
Par. (26). Pub. L. 105–33, §5552(3)(A), struck out "will" before "have in effect" in introductory provisions.
Par. (26)(A). Pub. L. 105–33, §5552(3)(B), inserted ", modify," after "or to establish" and ", or to make or enforce a child custody determination" after "support".
Par. (26)(B). Pub. L. 105–33, §5552(3)(C)(i), (ii), inserted "or the child" after "1 party" and after "former party".
Par. (26)(C). Pub. L. 105–33, §5552(3)(D), inserted "or the child" after "1 party", substituted "another person" for "another party", inserted "to that person" after "release of the information", and substituted "party or the child" for "former party".
Par. (26)(D), (E). Pub. L. 105–33, §5552(3)(C)(iii), (E), added subpars. (D) and (E).
Par. (29)(A). Pub. L. 105–33, §5548(b)(1)(B), substituted cls. (i) and (ii) for
"(i) shall be defined, taking into account the best interests of the child, and
"(ii) shall be applied in each case,
by, at the option of the State, the State agency administering the State program under part A of this subchapter, this part, or subchapter XIX;".
Pub. L. 105–33, §5548(b)(1)(A), in introductory provisions, substituted "part A, the State program under part E, the State program under subchapter XIX, or the food stamp program, as defined under section 2012(h) of title 7," for "part A of this subchapter or the State program under subchapter XIX".
Par. (29)(D). Pub. L. 105–33, §5548(b)(2), substituted "the State program under part E, the State program under subchapter XIX, or the food stamp program, as defined under section 2012(h) of title 7" for "or the State program under subchapter XIX".
Par. (29)(E). Pub. L. 105–33, §5548(b)(3), substituted "individual and the State agency administering the State program funded under part A, the State agency administering the State program under part E, the State agency administering the State program under subchapter XIX, or the State agency administering the food stamp program, as defined under section 2012(h) of title 7," for "individual, the State agency administering the State program funded under part A, and the State agency administering the State program under subchapter XIX,".
Par. (32)(A). Pub. L. 105–33, §5545, substituted "section 659a(d)" for "section 659a(d)(2)".
Par. (33). Pub. L. 105–33, §5546(a), substituted "or enforce support orders, or" for "and enforce support orders, and", "guidelines established or adopted by such tribe or organization" for "guidelines established by such tribe or organization", "all collections" for "all funding collected", and "such collections" for "such funding".
1996—Pub. L. 104–193, §375(a)(4), inserted at end of closing provisions "Nothing in paragraph (33) shall void any provision of any cooperative agreement entered into before August 22, 1996, nor shall such paragraph deprive any State of jurisdiction over Indian country (as so defined) that is lawfully exercised under section 1322 of title 25."
Par. (4). Pub. L. 104–193, §301(a)(1), amended par. (4) generally. Prior to amendment, par. (4) read as follows: "provide that such State will undertake—
"(A) in the case of a child born out of wedlock with respect to whom an assignment under section 602(a)(26) of this title or section 1396k of this title is effective, to establish the paternity of such child, unless the agency administering the plan of the State under part A of this subchapter determines in accordance with the standards prescribed by the Secretary pursuant to section 602(a)(26)(B) of this title that it is against the best interests of the child to do so, or, in the case of such a child with respect to whom an assignment under section 1396k of this title is in effect, the State agency administering the plan approved under subchapter XIX of this chapter determines pursuant to section 1396k(a)(1)(B) of this title that it is against the best interests of the child to do so, and
"(B) in the case of any child with respect to whom such assignment is effective, including an assignment with respect to a child on whose behalf a State agency is making foster care maintenance payments under part E of this subchapter, to secure support for such child from his parent (or from any other person legally liable for such support), and from such parent for his spouse (or former spouse) receiving aid to families with dependent children or medical assistance under a State plan approved under subchapter XIX of this chapter (but only if a support obligation has been established with respect to such spouse, and only if the support obligation established with respect to the child is being enforced under the plan), utilizing any reciprocal arrangements adopted with other States (unless the agency administering the plan of the State under part A or E of this subchapter determines in accordance with the standards prescribed by the Secretary pursuant to section 602(a)(26)(B) of this title that it is against the best interests of the child to do so), except that when such arrangements and other means have proven ineffective, the State may utilize the Federal courts to obtain or enforce court orders for support;".
Par. (5)(A). Pub. L. 104–193, §108(c)(11), substituted "pursuant to section 608(a)(3) of this title" for "under section 602(a)(26) of this title" and "payments collected," for "payments collected; except that this paragraph shall not apply to such payments for any month following the first month in which the amount collected is sufficient to make such family ineligible for assistance under the State plan approved under part A of this subchapter;".
Par. (6). Pub. L. 104–193, §301(a)(2)(A), substituted "provide that—" for "provide that" in introductory provisions.
Par. (6)(A). Pub. L. 104–193, §301(a)(2)(B), added subpar. (A) and struck out former subpar. (A) which read as follows: "the child support collection or paternity determination services established under the plan shall be made available to any individual not otherwise eligible for such services upon application filed by such individual with the State, including support collection services for the spouse (or former spouse) with whom the absent parent's child is living (but only if a support obligation has been established with respect to such spouse, and only if the support obligation established with respect to the child is being enforced under the plan),".
Par. (6)(B). Pub. L. 104–193, §301(a)(2)(C), (D), inserted "on individuals not receiving assistance under any State program funded under part A" after "such services shall be imposed", realigned margins, and substituted semicolon for comma at end.
Par. (6)(C). Pub. L. 104–193, §301(a)(2)(D), realigned margins and substituted semicolon for comma at end.
Par. (6)(D). Pub. L. 104–193, §301(a)(2)(D), realigned margins and substituted semicolon for comma before "and" at end.
Pub. L. 104–193, §108(c)(12), substituted "assistance under a State program funded" for "aid under a State plan approved".
Par. (6)(E). Pub. L. 104–193, §301(a)(2)(D)(i), (E), realigned margins.
Pub. L. 104–193, §301(a)(2)(D)(ii), which directed substitution of a semicolon for the final comma, could not be executed because subpar. (E) already ended in a semicolon and not a comma.
Par. (7). Pub. L. 104–193, §375(c), inserted "and Indian tribes or tribal organizations (as defined in subsections (e) and (l) of section 5304 of title 25)" after "law enforcement officials".
Par. (8). Pub. L. 104–193, §395(d)(1)(D), substituted "noncustodial" for "absent" in introductory provisions.
Par. (8)(B). Pub. L. 104–193, §316(g)(1)(A), amended subpar. (B) generally. Prior to amendment, subpar. (B) read as follows: "the Parent Locator Service in the Department of Health and Human Services;".
Par. (9)(B), (C). Pub. L. 104–193, §395(d)(2)(B), substituted "a noncustodial parent" for "an absent parent".
Par. (9)(E). Pub. L. 104–193, §324(b), added subpar. (E).
Par. (11). Pub. L. 104–193, §302(b)(2), designated existing provisions as subpar. (A), inserted "and" after semicolon at end, and redesignated par. (12) as subpar. (B).
Par. (12). Pub. L. 104–193, §304(a), added par. (12). Former par. (12) redesignated (11)(B).
Pub. L. 104–193, §302(b)(2)(B), redesignated par. (12) as (11)(B).
Par. (13). Pub. L. 104–193, §§316(g)(1)(B), 395(d)(1)(D), substituted "noncustodial parents" for "absent parents" and inserted before semicolon at end "and provide that information requests by parents who are residents of other States be treated with the same priority as requests by parents who are residents of the State submitting the plan".
Par. (14). Pub. L. 104–193, §342(a)(1), (2), designated existing provisions as subpar. (A) and redesignated par. (15) as subpar. (B).
Par. (15). Pub. L. 104–193, §342(a)(3), added par. (15). Former par. (15) redesignated (14)(B).
Pub. L. 104–193, §342(a)(2), redesignated par. (15) as (14)(B).
Par. (16). Pub. L. 104–193, §344(a)(1), as amended by Pub. L. 105–33, §5556(b), struck out ", at the option of the State," before "for the establishment", inserted "and operation by the State agency" after "for the establishment" and "meeting the requirements of section 654a of this title" after "information retrieval system", substituted "so as to control" for "in the State and localities thereof, so as (A) to control", struck out "(i)" before "all the factors in the support enforcement collection", and struck out before semicolon at end "(including, but not limited to, (I) identifiable correlation factors (such as social security numbers, names, dates of birth, home addresses and mailing addresses (including postal ZIP codes) of any individual with respect to whom support obligations are sought to be established or enforced and with respect to any person to whom such support obligations are owing) to assure sufficient compatibility among the systems of different jurisdictions to permit periodic screening to determine whether such individual is paying or is obligated to pay support in more than one jurisdiction, (II) checking of records of such individuals on a periodic basis with Federal, intra- and inter-State, and local agencies, (III) maintaining the data necessary to meet the Federal reporting requirements on a timely basis, and (IV) delinquency and enforcement activities), (ii) the collection and distribution of support payments (both intra- and inter-State), the determination, collection, and distribution of incentive payments both inter- and intra-State, and the maintenance of accounts receivable on all amounts owed, collected and distributed, and (iii) the costs of all services rendered, either directly or by interfacing with State financial management and expenditure information, (B) to provide interface with records of the State's aid to families with dependent children program in order to determine if a collection of a support payment causes a change affecting eligibility for or the amount of aid under such program, (C) to provide for security against unauthorized access to, or use of, the data in such system, (D) to facilitate the development and improvement of the income withholding and other procedures required under section 666(a) of this title through the monitoring of support payments, the maintenance of accurate records regarding the payment of support, and the prompt provision of notice to appropriate officials with respect to any arrearages in support payments which may occur, and (E) to provide management information on all cases under the State plan from initial referral or application through collection and enforcement".
Par. (21)(A). Pub. L. 104–193, §395(d)(1)(D), substituted "noncustodial parent" for "absent parent".
Par. (23). Pub. L. 104–193, §332, inserted "and will publicize the availability and encourage the use of procedures for voluntary establishment of paternity and child support by means the State deems appropriate" before semicolon.
Par. (24). Pub. L. 104–193, §344(a)(4), amended par. (24) generally. Prior to amendment, par. (24) read as follows: "provide that if the State, as of October 13, 1988, does not have in effect an automated data processing and information retrieval system meeting all of the requirements of paragraph (16), the State—
"(A) will submit to the Secretary by October 1, 1991, for review and approval by the Secretary within 9 months after submittal an advance automated data processing planning document of the type referred to in such paragraph; and
"(B) will have in effect by October 1, 1997, an operational automated data processing and information retrieval system, meeting all the requirements of that paragraph, which has been approved by the Secretary;".
Par. (25). Pub. L. 104–193, §301(b), added par. (25).
Par. (26). Pub. L. 104–193, §303(a), added par. (26).
Par. (27). Pub. L. 104–193, §312(a), added par. (27).
Par. (28). Pub. L. 104–193, §313(a), added par. (28).
Par. (29). Pub. L. 104–193, §333, added par. (29).
Par. (30). Pub. L. 104–193, §343(b), added par. (30).
Par. (31). Pub. L. 104–193, §370(a)(2), added par. (31).
Par. (32). Pub. L. 104–193, §371(b), added par. (32).
Par. (33). Pub. L. 104–193, §375(a)(1)–(3), added par. (33).
1995—Par. (24)(B). Pub. L. 104–35 substituted "1997" for "1995".
1988—Par. (5)(A). Pub. L. 100–485, §104(a), substituted "on a monthly basis (or on a quarterly basis for so long as the Secretary determines with respect to a State that requiring such notice on a monthly basis would impose an unreasonable administrative burden)" for "at least annually".
Par. (6)(D), (E). Pub. L. 100–485, §111(c), added cl. (D) and redesignated former cl. (D) as (E).
Par. (16). Pub. L. 100–485, §123(d), substituted "advance automated" for "advance automatic" in introductory provisions.
Pub. L. 100–485, §123(a)(2), substituted "a statewide automated" for "an automatic".
Par. (24). Pub. L. 100–485, §123(a)(1), added par. (24).
1987—Par. (4)(A). Pub. L. 100–203, §9142(a)(1)(A), (B), substituted "an assignment under section 602(a)(26) of this title or section 1396k of this title" for "an assignment under section 602(a)(26) of this title" and ", or, in the case of such a child with respect to whom an assignment under section 1396k of this title is in effect, the State agency administering the plan approved under subchapter XIX of this chapter determines pursuant to section 1396k(a)(1)(B) of this title that it is against the best interests of the child to do so, and" for ", and".
Par. (4)(B). Pub. L. 100–203, §9142(a)(1)(C), inserted "or medical assistance under a State plan approved under subchapter XIX of this chapter" after "children".
Par. (5). Pub. L. 100–203, §9142(a)(2), substituted "provide that (A)" for "provide that," and added cl. (B).
Pub. L. 100–203, §9141(a)(2), struck out "(except as provided in section 657(c) of this title)" after "apply to such payments".
1984—Par. (4)(B). Pub. L. 98–378, §11(b)(1), inserted "including an assignment with respect to a child on whose behalf a State agency is making foster care maintenance payments under part E of this subchapter," after "such assignment is effective," and inserted "or E" after "part A".
Par. (4)(B). Pub. L. 98–378, §12(a), substituted ", and" for "and, at the option of the State," before "from such parent" and inserted ", and only if the support obligation established with respect to the child is being enforced under the plan".
Par. (5). Pub. L. 98–378, §3(e), inserted ", and the individual will be notified at least annually of the amount of the support payments collected;".
Par. (6)(A). Pub. L. 98–378, §12(b), struck out ", at the option of the State," before "support collection services" and inserted ", and only if the support obligation established with respect to the child is being enforced under the plan".
Par. (6)(B). Pub. L. 98–378, §3(c), substituted "shall be imposed, which shall be paid by the individual applying for such services, or recovered from the absent parent, or paid by the State out of its own funds (the payment of which from State funds shall not be considered as an administrative cost of the State for the operation of the plan, and shall be considered income to the program), the amount of which (i) will not exceed $25 (or such higher or lower amount (which shall be uniform for all States) as the Secretary may determine to be appropriate for any fiscal year to reflect increases or decreases in administrative costs), and (ii) may vary among such individuals on the basis of ability to pay (as determined by the State), and" for "may be imposed, except that the amount of any such application fee shall be reasonable, as determined under regulations of the Secretary,".
Par. (6)(C). Pub. L. 98–378, §21(d)(1), (3), added cl. (C). Former cl. (C) redesignated (D).
Par. (6)(D). Pub. L. 98–378, §21(d)(1), (2), redesignated former cl. (C) as (D) and substituted "fees" for "fee" before "so imposed".
Par. (8)(B). Pub. L. 98–369, §2663(j)(2)(B)(x), substituted "Health and Human Services" for "Health, Education, and Welfare".
Par. (9)(C). Pub. L. 98–369, §2663(c)(14)(A), struck out "of such parent" before "with respect to whom aid".
Par. (16)(A)(ii). Pub. L. 98–369, §2663(c)(14)(B), substituted "collection, and distribution" for "collection and distribution," before "of incentive payments".
Par. (16)(D), (E). Pub. L. 98–378, §6(a), added cl. (D) and redesignated former cl. (D) as (E).
Par. (17). Pub. L. 98–378, §2663(c)(14)(C), realigned margin, substituted "provide that the State will accept" for "to accept", "will impose" for "and to impose", "will transmit" for "to transmit", and "will otherwise comply" for ", otherwise to comply".
Par. (20). Pub. L. 98–378, §3(a), added par. (20).
Par. (21). Pub. L. 98–378, §3(d), added par. (21).
Par. (22). Pub. L. 98–378, §5(b), added par. (22).
Par. (23). Pub. L. 98–378, §14(a), added par. (23).
Pub. L. 98–378, §3(f), inserted after numbered paragraphs provision that the State may allow the jurisdiction which makes the collection involved to retain any application fee under par. (6)(B) or any late payment fee under par. (21).
1982—Par. (5). Pub. L. 97–248, §173(a), inserted "following the first month" after "for any month".
Par. (6). Pub. L. 97–248, §171(a), in cl. (A) inserted provisions relating to inclusion of, at the option of the State, support collection services for the spouse or former spouse, in cl. (B) substituted "such services" for "services under the State plan (other than collection of support)", and in cl. (C) substituted provisions relating to collection of any costs in excess of the fee imposed, for provisions relating to the State retaining any fee imposed under State law as required under former par. (19).
Pars. (18) to (20). Pub. L. 97–248, §171(b)(1), inserted "and" at end of par. (18), struck out par. (19) relating to imposition of a fee on an individual who owes child or spousal support obligation, and redesignated par. (20) as (19).
1981—Pub. L. 97–35, §2332(d)(2), substituted in provision preceding par. (1) "child and spousal support" for "child support".
Par. (4)(B). Pub. L. 97–35, §2332(d)(3), substituted "such support) and, at the option of the State, from such parent for his spouse (or former spouse) receiving aid to families with dependent children (but only if a support obligation has been established with respect to such spouse), utilizing" for "such support), utilizing".
Par. (5). Pub. L. 97–35, §2332(d)(4), substituted "support payments" for "child support payments" and "collected for an individual" for "collected for a child".
Par. (6)(B). Pub. L. 97–35, §2333(a)(1), substituted "services under the State plan (other than collection of support)" for "such services".
Par. (6)(C). Pub. L. 97–35, §2333(a)(2), substituted "the State will retain, but only if it is the State which makes the collection, the fee imposed under State law as required under paragraph (19)" for "any costs in excess of the fee so imposed may be collected from such individual by deducting such costs from the amount of any recovery made".
Par. (9)(C). Pub. L. 97–35, §2332(d)(5), substituted "of the child or children or the parent of such child or children" for "of a child or children".
Par. (11). Pub. L. 97–35, §2332(d)(6), substituted "collected as support" for "collected as child support".
Par. (16). Pub. L. 97–35, §2332(d)(7), substituted "support enforcement" for "child support enforcement", "whom support obligations" for "whom child support obligations", and "obligated to pay support" for "obligated to pay child support".
Par. (18). Pub. L. 97–35, §2331(b), added par. (18).
Par. (19). Pub. L. 97–35, §2333(b), added par. (19).
Par. (20). Pub. L. 97–35, §2335(a), added par. (20).
1980—Par. (16). Pub. L. 96–265 added par. (16).
Par. (17). Pub. L. 96–611 added par. (17).
1977—Pars. (14), (15). Pub. L. 95–30 added pars. (14) and (15).
1975—Par. (4)(A). Pub. L. 94–88, §208(b), substituted "to establish the paternity of such child, unless the agency administering the plan of the State under part A of this subchapter determines in accordance with the standards prescribed by the Secretary pursuant to section 602(a)(26)(B) of this title that it is against the best interests of the child to do so" for "to establish the paternity of such child".
Par. (4)(B). Pub. L. 94–88, §208(c), substituted "reciprocal arrangements adopted with other States (unless the agency administering the plan of the State under part A of this subchapter determines in accordance with the standards prescribed by the Secretary pursuant to section 602(a)(26)(B) of this title that it is against the best interests of the child to do so)" for "reciprocal arrangements adopted with other States".
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 2018 Amendment
Pub. L. 115–123, div. E, title XII, §53117(b), Feb. 9, 2018, 132 Stat. 307, provided that:
"(1) In general.—The amendments made by subsection (a) [amending this section] shall take effect on the 1st day of the 1st fiscal year that begins on or after the date of the enactment of this Act [Feb. 9, 2018], and shall apply to payments under part D of title IV of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 651 et seq.) for calendar quarters beginning on or after such 1st day.
"(2) Delay permitted if state legislation required.—If the Secretary of Health and Human Services determines that State legislation (other than legislation appropriating funds) is required in order for a State plan developed pursuant to part D of title IV of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 651 et seq.) to meet the requirements imposed by the amendment made by subsection (a), the plan shall not be regarded as failing to meet such requirements before the 1st day of the 1st calendar quarter beginning after the first regular session of the State legislature that begins after the date of the enactment of this Act. For purposes of the preceding sentence, if the State has a 2-year legislative session, each year of the session is deemed to be a separate regular session of the State legislature."
Effective Date of 2008 Amendment
Amendment of this section and repeal of Pub. L. 110–234 by Pub. L. 110–246 effective May 22, 2008, the date of enactment of Pub. L. 110–234, except as otherwise provided, see section 4 of Pub. L. 110–246, set out as an Effective Date note under section 8701 of Title 7, Agriculture.
Amendment by sections 4002(b)(1)(A), (B), (2)(V), and 4115(c)(2)(H) of Pub. L. 110–246 effective Oct. 1, 2008, see section 4407 of Pub. L. 110–246, set out as a note under section 1161 of Title 2, The Congress.
Effective Date of 2006 Amendment
Amendment by section 7301(b)(1)(C) of Pub. L. 109–171 effective Oct. 1, 2009, and applicable to payments under parts A and D of this subchapter for calendar quarters beginning on or after such date, subject to certain State options, see section 7301(e) of Pub. L. 109–171, set out as a note under section 608 of this title.
Amendment by section 7303(b) of Pub. L. 109–171 effective Oct. 1, 2006, see section 7303(c) of Pub. L. 109–171, set out as a note under section 652 of this title.
Pub. L. 109–171, title VII, §7310(c), Feb. 8, 2006, 120 Stat. 148, provided that: "The amendments made by this section [amending this section and section 657 of this title] shall take effect on October 1, 2006."
Effective Date of 1999 Amendment
Amendment by Pub. L. 106–169 effective as if included in the enactment of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996, Pub. L. 104–193, see section 401(q) of Pub. L. 106–169, set out as a note under section 602 of this title.
Effective Date of 1997 Amendment
Amendment by Pub. L. 105–33 effective as if included in the enactment of title III of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996, Pub. L. 104–193, see section 5557 of Pub. L. 105–33, set out as a note under section 608 of this title.
Effective Date of 1996 Amendment
Amendment by section 108(c)(11), (12) of Pub. L. 104–193 effective July 1, 1997, with transition rules relating to State options to accelerate such date, rules relating to claims, actions, and proceedings commenced before such date, rules relating to closing out of accounts for terminated or substantially modified programs and continuance in office of Assistant Secretary for Family Support, and provisions relating to termination of entitlement under AFDC program, see section 116 of Pub. L. 104–193, as amended, set out as an Effective Date note under section 601 of this title.
Amendment by section 302(b)(2) of Pub. L. 104–193 effective Aug. 22, 1996, see section 302(c)(2) of Pub. L. 104–193, set out as a note under section 657 of this title.
Pub. L. 104–193, title III, §303(b), Aug. 22, 1996, 110 Stat. 2205, provided that: "The amendment made by subsection (a) [amending this section] shall become effective on October 1, 1997."
Pub. L. 104–193, title III, §304(b), Aug. 22, 1996, 110 Stat. 2205, provided that: "The amendment made by subsection (a) [amending this section] shall become effective on October 1, 1997."
Amendment by section 312(a) of Pub. L. 104–193 effective Oct. 1, 1998, with limited exception for States which, as of Aug. 22, 1996, were processing the receipt of child support payments through local courts, see section 312(d) of Pub. L. 104–193, set out as an Effective Date note under section 654b of this title.
Amendment by section 342(a) of Pub. L. 104–193 effective with respect to calendar quarters beginning 12 months or more after Aug. 22, 1996, see section 342(c) of Pub. L. 104–193, set out as a note under section 652 of this title.
Amendment by section 370(a)(2) of Pub. L. 104–193 effective Oct. 1, 1997, see section 370(b) of Pub. L. 104–193, set out as a note under section 652 of this title.
Pub. L. 104–193, title III, §395(a)–(c), Aug. 22, 1996, 110 Stat. 2259, provided that:
"(a) In General.—Except as otherwise specifically provided (but subject to subsections (b) and (c))—
"(1) the provisions of this title [see Tables for classification] requiring the enactment or amendment of State laws under section 466 of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 666], or revision of State plans under section 454 of such Act [this section], shall be effective with respect to periods beginning on and after October 1, 1996; and
"(2) all other provisions of this title shall become effective upon the date of the enactment of this Act [Aug. 22, 1996].
"(b) Grace Period for State Law Changes.—The provisions of this title shall become effective with respect to a State on the later of—
"(1) the date specified in this title, or
"(2) the effective date of laws enacted by the legislature of such State implementing such provisions,
but in no event later than the 1st day of the 1st calendar quarter beginning after the close of the 1st regular session of the State legislature that begins after the date of the enactment of this Act [Aug. 22, 1996]. For purposes of the previous sentence, in the case of a State that has a 2-year legislative session, each year of such session shall be deemed to be a separate regular session of the State legislature.
"(c) Grace Period for State Constitutional Amendment.—A State shall not be found out of compliance with any requirement enacted by this title if the State is unable to so comply without amending the State constitution until the earlier of—
"(1) 1 year after the effective date of the necessary State constitutional amendment; or
"(2) 5 years after the date of the enactment of this Act [Aug. 22, 1996]."
Effective Date of 1988 Amendment
Pub. L. 100–485, title I, §104(b), Oct. 13, 1988, 102 Stat. 2348, provided that: "The amendment made by subsection (a) [amending this section] shall become effective on the first day of the first calendar quarter which begins 4 or more years after the date of the enactment of this Act [Oct. 13, 1988]."
Pub. L. 100–485, title I, §111(f)(2), Oct. 13, 1988, 102 Stat. 2350, provided that: "The amendments made by subsections (b) and (c) [amending this section and section 666 of this title] shall become effective on the first day of the first month beginning one year or more after the date of the enactment of this Act [Oct. 13, 1988]."
Effective Date of 1987 Amendment
Pub. L. 100–203, title IX, §9141(b), Dec. 22, 1987, 101 Stat. 1330–321, provided that: "The amendments made by subsection (a) [amending this section and section 657 of this title] shall become effective upon enactment [Dec. 22, 1987]."
Pub. L. 100–203, title IX, §9142(b), Dec. 22, 1987, 101 Stat. 1330–322, provided that: "The amendments made by subsection (a) [amending this section] shall become effective on July 1, 1988."
Effective Date of 1984 Amendment
Pub. L. 98–378, §3(g), Aug. 16, 1984, 98 Stat. 1311, provided that:
"(1) Except as provided in paragraphs (2) and (3), the amendments made by this section [enacting section 666 of this title and amending this section] shall become effective on October 1, 1985.
"(2) Section 454(21) of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 654(21)] (as added by subsection (d) of this section), and section 466(e) of such Act [42 U.S.C. 666(e)] (as added by subsection (b) of this section), shall be effective with respect to support owed for any month beginning after the date of the enactment of this Act [Aug. 16, 1984].
"(3) In the case of a State with respect to which the Secretary of Health and Human Services has determined that State legislation is required in order to conform the State plan approved under part D of title IV of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 651 et seq.] to the requirements imposed by any amendment made by this section, the State plan shall not be regarded as failing to comply with the requirements of such part solely by reason of its failure to meet the requirements imposed by such amendment prior to the beginning of the fourth month beginning after the end of the first session of the State legislature which ends on or after October 1, 1985. For purposes of the preceding sentence, the term 'session' means a regular, special, budget, or other session of a State legislature."
Pub. L. 98–378, §5(c)(1), Aug. 16, 1984, 98 Stat. 1314, provided that: "The amendments made by the preceding provisions of this section [amending this section and section 658 of this title] shall become effective on October 1, 1985."
Pub. L. 98–378, §6(c), Aug. 16, 1984, 98 Stat. 1315, provided that: "The amendments made by this section [amending this section and section 655 of this title] shall apply with respect to quarters beginning on or after October 1, 1984."
Pub. L. 98–378, §11(e), Aug. 16, 1984, 98 Stat. 1318, provided that: "The amendments made by this section [amending this section and sections 656, 657, 664, and 671 of this title] shall become effective October 1, 1984, and shall apply to collections made on or after that date."
Pub. L. 98–378, §12(c), Aug. 16, 1984, 98 Stat. 1319, provided that: "The amendments made by this section [amending this section] shall become effective October 1, 1985."
Pub. L. 98–378, §14(b), Aug. 16, 1984, 98 Stat. 1320, provided that: "The amendments made by subsection (a) [amending this section] shall become effective October 1, 1985."
Amendment by section 21(d) of Pub. L. 98–378 applicable with respect to refunds payable under section 6402 of Title 26, Internal Revenue Code, after Dec. 31, 1985, see section 21(g) of Pub. L. 98–378, set out as a note under section 6103 of Title 26.
Amendment by Pub. L. 98–369 effective July 18, 1984, but not to be construed as changing or affecting any right, liability, status, or interpretation which existed (under the provisions of law involved) before that date, see section 2664(b) of Pub. L. 98–369, set out as a note under section 401 of this title.
Effective Date of 1982 Amendment
Amendment by section 171(a), (b)(1) of Pub. L. 97–248 effective on and after Aug. 13, 1981, see section 171(c) of Pub. L. 97–248, set out as a note under section 503 of this title.
Pub. L. 97–248, title I, §173(b), Sept. 3, 1982, 96 Stat. 403, provided that: "The amendment made by this section [amending this section] shall become effective on October 1, 1982."
Effective Date of 1981 Amendment
Amendments by sections 2331(b), 2332(d)(2)–(7), and 2333(a), (b) of Pub. L. 97–35 effective Oct. 1, 1981, except as otherwise specifically provided, see section 2336 of Pub. L. 97–35, set out as a note under section 651 of this title.
Amendment by section 2335(a) of Pub. L. 97–35 effective Aug. 13, 1981, except that such amendment shall not be requirements under this section or section 503 of this title before Oct. 1, 1982, see section 2335(c) of Pub. L. 97–35, set out as a note under section 503 of this title.
Effective Date of 1980 Amendment
Amendment by Pub. L. 96–265 effective July 1, 1981, and to be effective only with respect to expenditures, referred to in section 655(a)(3) of this title, made on or after such date, see section 405(e) of Pub. L. 96–265, set out as a note under section 652 of this title.
Effective Date of 1977 Amendment
Pub. L. 95–30, title V, §502(b), May 23, 1977, 91 Stat. 162, provided that: "The amendments made by this section [amending this section] shall take effect on the first day of the first calendar month which begins after the date of enactment of this Act [May 23, 1977]."
Effective Date of 1975 Amendment
Pub. L. 94–88, title II, §210, Aug. 9, 1975, 89 Stat. 437, provided that: "The amendments made by this title [amending this section and sections 602, 603, and 655 of this title and enacting provisions set out as notes under sections 602 and 655 of this title] shall, unless otherwise specified therein, become effective August 1, 1975."
Exception to General Effective Date for State Plans Requiring State Law Amendments
Pub. L. 109–171, title VII, §7311, Feb. 8, 2006, 120 Stat. 148, provided that: "In the case of a State plan under part D of title IV of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 651 et seq.] which the Secretary determines requires State legislation in order for the plan to meet the additional requirements imposed by the amendments made by this subtitle [subtitle C (§§7301–7311) of title VII of Pub. L. 109–171, amending this section, sections 608, 652, 653, 655, 657, 664, and 666 of this title, section 6402 of Title 26, Internal Revenue Code, and provisions set out as a note under section 1169 of Title 29, Labor], the effective date of the amendments imposing the additional requirements shall be 3 months after the first day of the first calendar quarter beginning after the close of the first regular session of the State legislature that begins after the date of the enactment of this Act [Feb. 8, 2006]. For purposes of the preceding sentence, in the case of a State that has a 2-year legislative session, each year of the session shall be considered to be a separate regular session of the State legislature."
State Commissions on Child Support
Pub. L. 98–378, §15, Aug. 16, 1984, 98 Stat. 1320, provided that:
"(a) As a condition of the State's eligibility for Federal payments under part A or D of title IV of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 601 et seq., 651 et seq.] for quarters beginning more than 30 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Aug. 16, 1984] and ending prior to October 1, 1985, the Governor of each State, on or before December 1, 1984, shall (subject to subsection (f)) appoint a State Commission on Child Support.
"(b) Each State Commission appointed under subsection (a) shall be composed of members appropriately representing all aspects of the child support system, including custodial and non-custodial parents, the agency or organizational unit administering the State's plan under part D of such title IV [42 U.S.C. 651 et seq.], the State judiciary, the executive and legislative branches of the State government, child welfare and social services agencies, and others.
"(c) It shall be the function of each State Commission to examine, investigate, and study the operation of the State's child support system for the primary purpose of determining the extent to which such system has been successful in securing support and parental involvement both for children who are eligible for aid under a State plan approved under part A of title IV of such Act [42 U.S.C. 601 et seq.] and for children who are not eligible for such aid, giving particular attention to such specific problems (among others) as visitation, the establishment of appropriate objective standards for support, the enforcement of interstate obligations, the availability, cost, and effectiveness of services both to children who are eligible for such aid and to children who are not, and the need for additional State or Federal legislation to obtain support for all children.
"(d) Each State Commission shall submit to the Governor of the State and make available to the public, no later than October 1, 1985, a full and complete report of its findings and recommendations resulting from the examination, investigation, and study under this section. The Governor shall transmit such report to the Secretary of Health and Human Services along with the Governor's comments thereon.
"(e) None of the costs incurred in the establishment and operation of a State Commission under this section, or incurred by such a Commission in carrying out its functions under subsections (c) and (d), shall be considered as expenditures qualifying for Federal payments under part A or D of title IV of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 601 et seq., 651 et seq.] or be otherwise payable or reimbursable by the United States or any agency thereof.
"(f) If the Secretary determines, at the request of any State on the basis of information submitted by the State and such other information as may be available to the Secretary, that such State—
"(1) has placed in effect and is implementing objective standards for the determination and enforcement of child support obligations,
"(2) has established within the five years prior to the enactment of this Act [Aug. 16, 1984] a commission or council with substantially the same functions as the State Commissions provided for under this section, or
"(3) is making satisfactory progress toward fully effective child support enforcement and will continue to do so,
then such State shall not be required to establish a State Commission under this section and the preceding provisions of this section shall not apply."
Delayed Effective Date in Cases Requiring State Legislation
Pub. L. 97–248, title I, §176, Sept. 3, 1982, 96 Stat. 403, provided that: "In the case of a State with respect to which the Secretary of Health and Human Services has determined that State legislation is required in order to conform the State plan approved under part D of title IV of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 651 et seq.] to the requirements imposed by any amendment made by this subtitle [subtitle E (§§171–176) of title I of Pub. L. 97–248, see Tables for classification], the State plan shall not be regarded as failing to comply with the requirements of such part solely by reason of its failure to meet the requirements imposed by such amendment prior to the end of the first session of the State legislature which begins after October 1, 1982, or which began prior to October 1, 1982, and remained in session for at least twenty-five calendar days after such date. For purposes of the preceding sentence, the term 'session' means a regular, special, budget, or other session of a State legislature."
§654a. Automated data processing
(a) In general
In order for a State to meet the requirements of this section, the State agency administering the State program under this part shall have in operation a single statewide automated data processing and information retrieval system which has the capability to perform the tasks specified in this section with the frequency and in the manner required by or under this part.
(b) Program management
The automated system required by this section shall perform such functions as the Secretary may specify relating to management of the State program under this part, including—
(1) controlling and accounting for use of Federal, State, and local funds in carrying out the program; and
(2) maintaining the data necessary to meet Federal reporting requirements under this part on a timely basis.
(c) Calculation of performance indicators
In order to enable the Secretary to determine the incentive payments and penalty adjustments required by sections 652(g) and 658a of this title, the State agency shall—
(1) use the automated system—
(A) to maintain the requisite data on State performance with respect to paternity establishment and child support enforcement in the State; and
(B) to calculate the paternity establishment percentage for the State for each fiscal year; and
(2) have in place systems controls to ensure the completeness and reliability of, and ready access to, the data described in paragraph (1)(A), and the accuracy of the calculations described in paragraph (1)(B).
(d) Information integrity and security
The State agency shall have in effect safeguards on the integrity, accuracy, and completeness of, access to, and use of data in the automated system required by this section, which shall include the following (in addition to such other safeguards as the Secretary may specify in regulations):
(1) Policies restricting access
Written policies concerning access to data by State agency personnel, and sharing of data with other persons, which—
(A) permit access to and use of data only to the extent necessary to carry out the State program under this part; and
(B) specify the data which may be used for particular program purposes, and the personnel permitted access to such data.
(2) Systems controls
Systems controls (such as passwords or blocking of fields) to ensure strict adherence to the policies described in paragraph (1).
(3) Monitoring of access
Routine monitoring of access to and use of the automated system, through methods such as audit trails and feedback mechanisms, to guard against and promptly identify unauthorized access or use.
(4) Training and information
Procedures to ensure that all personnel (including State and local agency staff and contractors) who may have access to or be required to use confidential program data are informed of applicable requirements and penalties (including those in section 6103 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986), and are adequately trained in security procedures.
(5) Penalties
Administrative penalties (up to and including dismissal from employment) for unauthorized access to, or disclosure or use of, confidential data.
(e) State case registry
(1) Contents
The automated system required by this section shall include a registry (which shall be known as the "State case registry") that contains records with respect to—
(A) each case in which services are being provided by the State agency under the State plan approved under this part; and
(B) each support order established or modified in the State on or after October 1, 1998.
(2) Linking of local registries
The State case registry may be established by linking local case registries of support orders through an automated information network, subject to this section.
(3) Use of standardized data elements
Such records shall use standardized data elements for both parents (such as names, social security numbers and other uniform identification numbers, dates of birth, and case identification numbers), and contain such other information (such as on case status) as the Secretary may require.
(4) Payment records
Each case record in the State case registry with respect to which services are being provided under the State plan approved under this part and with respect to which a support order has been established shall include a record of—
(A) the amount of monthly (or other periodic) support owed under the order, and other amounts (including arrearages, interest or late payment penalties, and fees) due or overdue under the order;
(B) any amount described in subparagraph (A) that has been collected;
(C) the distribution of such collected amounts;
(D) the birth date and, beginning not later than October 1, 1999, the social security number, of any child for whom the order requires the provision of support; and
(E) the amount of any lien imposed with respect to the order pursuant to section 666(a)(4) of this title.
(5) Updating and monitoring
The State agency operating the automated system required by this section shall promptly establish and update, maintain, and regularly monitor, case records in the State case registry with respect to which services are being provided under the State plan approved under this part, on the basis of—
(A) information on administrative actions and administrative and judicial proceedings and orders relating to paternity and support;
(B) information obtained from comparison with Federal, State, or local sources of information;
(C) information on support collections and distributions; and
(D) any other relevant information.
(f) Information comparisons and other disclosures of information
The State shall use the automated system required by this section to extract information from (at such times, and in such standardized format or formats, as may be required by the Secretary), to share and compare information with, and to receive information from, other data bases and information comparison services, in order to obtain (or provide) information necessary to enable the State agency (or the Secretary or other State or Federal agencies) to carry out this part, subject to section 6103 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. Such information comparison activities shall include the following:
(1) Federal Case Registry of Child Support Orders
Furnishing to the Federal Case Registry of Child Support Orders established under section 653(h) of this title (and update as necessary, with information including notice of expiration of orders) the minimum amount of information on child support cases recorded in the State case registry that is necessary to operate the registry (as specified by the Secretary in regulations).
(2) Federal Parent Locator Service
Exchanging information with the Federal Parent Locator Service for the purposes specified in section 653 of this title.
(3) Temporary family assistance and medicaid agencies
Exchanging information with State agencies (of the State and of other States) administering programs funded under part A, programs operated under a State plan approved under subchapter XIX, and other programs designated by the Secretary, as necessary to perform State agency responsibilities under this part and under such programs.
(4) Intrastate and interstate information comparisons
Exchanging information with other agencies of the State, agencies of other States, and interstate information networks, as necessary and appropriate to carry out (or assist other States to carry out) the purposes of this part.
(5) Private industry councils receiving welfare-to-work grants
Disclosing to a private industry council (as defined in section 603(a)(5)(D)(ii) of this title) to which funds are provided under section 603(a)(5) of this title the names, addresses, telephone numbers, and identifying case number information in the State program funded under part A, of noncustodial parents residing in the service delivery area of the private industry council, for the purpose of identifying and contacting noncustodial parents regarding participation in the program under section 603(a)(5) of this title.
(g) Collection and distribution of support payments
(1) In general
The State shall use the automated system required by this section to assist and facilitate the collection and disbursement of support payments through the State disbursement unit operated under section 654b of this title, through the performance of functions, including, at a minimum—
(A) transmission of orders and notices to employers (and other debtors) for the withholding of income—
(i) within 2 business days after receipt of notice of, and the income source subject to, such withholding from a court, another State, an employer, the Federal Parent Locator Service, or another source recognized by the State;
(ii) using uniform formats prescribed by the Secretary; and
(iii) at the option of the employer, using the electronic transmission methods prescribed by the Secretary;
(B) ongoing monitoring to promptly identify failures to make timely payment of support; and
(C) automatic use of enforcement procedures (including procedures authorized pursuant to section 666(c) of this title) if payments are not timely made.
(2) "Business day" defined
As used in paragraph (1), the term "business day" means a day on which State offices are open for regular business.
(h) Expedited administrative procedures
The automated system required by this section shall be used, to the maximum extent feasible, to implement the expedited administrative procedures required by section 666(c) of this title.
(Aug. 14, 1935, ch. 531, title IV, §454A, as added and amended Pub. L. 104–193, title III, §§311, 312(c), 325(b), 344(a)(2), Aug. 22, 1996, 110 Stat. 2205, 2208, 2226, 2235; Pub. L. 105–34, title X, §1090(a)(1), Aug. 5, 1997, 111 Stat. 961; Pub. L. 106–113, div. B, §1000(a)(4) [title VIII, §805(a)(1)], Nov. 29, 1999, 113 Stat. 1535, 1501A-285; Pub. L. 113–183, title III, §306(a), Sept. 29, 2014, 128 Stat. 1949.)
Editorial Notes
References in Text
The Internal Revenue Code of 1986, referred to in subsecs. (d)(4) and (f), is classified generally to Title 26, Internal Revenue Code.
Amendments
2014—Subsec. (g)(1). Pub. L. 113–183, §306(a)(1), struck out ", to the maximum extent feasible," after "this section" in introductory provisions.
Subsec. (g)(1)(A)(iii). Pub. L. 113–183, §306(a)(2), added cl. (iii).
1999—Subsec. (f)(5). Pub. L. 106–113 added par. (5).
1997—Subsec. (e)(4)(D). Pub. L. 105–34 substituted "the birth date and, beginning not later than October 1, 1999, the social security number, of any child" for "the birth date of any child".
1996—Subsecs. (e), (f). Pub. L. 104–193, §311, added subsecs. (e) and (f).
Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 104–193, §312(c), added subsec. (g).
Subsec. (h). Pub. L. 104–193, §325(b), added subsec. (h).
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 2014 Amendment
Pub. L. 113–183, title III, §306(b), Sept. 29, 2014, 128 Stat. 1949, provided that: "The amendments made by subsection (a) [amending this section] shall take effect on October 1, 2015."
Effective Date of 1997 Amendment
Amendment by Pub. L. 105–34 effective Oct. 1, 1998, see section 1090(a)(4) of Pub. L. 105–34, set out as a note under section 653 of this title.
Effective Date of 1996 Amendment
Amendment by section 312(c) of Pub. L. 104–193 effective Oct. 1, 1998, with limited exception for States which, as of Aug. 22, 1996, were processing the receipt of child support payments through local courts, see section 312(d) of Pub. L. 104–193, set out as an Effective Date note under section 654b of this title.
Effective Date
For provisions relating to effective date of title III of Pub. L. 104–193, see section 395(a)–(c) of Pub. L. 104–193, set out as an Effective Date of 1996 Amendment note under section 654 of this title.
Regulations
Pub. L. 104–193, title III, §344(a)(3), Aug. 22, 1996, 110 Stat. 2236, provided that: "The Secretary of Health and Human Services shall prescribe final regulations for implementation of section 454A of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 654a] not later than 2 years after the date of the enactment of this Act [Aug. 22, 1996]."
§654b. Collection and disbursement of support payments
(a) State disbursement unit
(1) In general
In order for a State to meet the requirements of this section, the State agency must establish and operate a unit (which shall be known as the "State disbursement unit") for the collection and disbursement of payments under support orders—
(A) in all cases being enforced by the State pursuant to section 654(4) of this title; and
(B) in all cases not being enforced by the State under this part in which the support order is initially issued in the State on or after January 1, 1994, and in which the income of the noncustodial parent is subject to withholding pursuant to section 666(a)(8)(B) of this title.
(2) Operation
The State disbursement unit shall be operated—
(A) directly by the State agency (or 2 or more State agencies under a regional cooperative agreement), or (to the extent appropriate) by a contractor responsible directly to the State agency; and
(B) except in cases described in paragraph (1)(B), in coordination with the automated system established by the State pursuant to section 654a of this title.
(3) Linking of local disbursement units
The State disbursement unit may be established by linking local disbursement units through an automated information network, subject to this section, if the Secretary agrees that the system will not cost more nor take more time to establish or operate than a centralized system. In addition, employers shall be given 1 location to which income withholding is sent.
(b) Required procedures
The State disbursement unit shall use automated procedures, electronic processes, and computer-driven technology to the maximum extent feasible, efficient, and economical, for the collection and disbursement of support payments, including procedures—
(1) for receipt of payments from parents, employers, and other States, and for disbursements to custodial parents and other obligees, the State agency, and the agencies of other States;
(2) for accurate identification of payments;
(3) to ensure prompt disbursement of the custodial parent's share of any payment; and
(4) to furnish to any parent, upon request, timely information on the current status of support payments under an order requiring payments to be made by or to the parent, except that in cases described in subsection (a)(1)(B), the State disbursement unit shall not be required to convert and maintain in automated form records of payments kept pursuant to section 666(a)(8)(B)(iii) of this title before the effective date of this section.
(c) Timing of disbursements
(1) In general
Except as provided in paragraph (2), the State disbursement unit shall distribute all amounts payable under section 657(a) of this title within 2 business days after receipt from the employer or other source of periodic income, if sufficient information identifying the payee is provided. The date of collection for amounts collected and distributed under this part is the date of receipt by the State disbursement unit, except that if current support is withheld by an employer in the month when due and is received by the State disbursement unit in a month other than the month when due, the date of withholding may be deemed to be the date of collection.
(2) Permissive retention of arrearages
The State disbursement unit may delay the distribution of collections toward arrearages until the resolution of any timely appeal with respect to such arrearages.
(d) "Business day" defined
As used in this section, the term "business day" means a day on which State offices are open for regular business.
(Aug. 14, 1935, ch. 531, title IV, §454B, as added Pub. L. 104–193, title III, §312(b), Aug. 22, 1996, 110 Stat. 2207; amended Pub. L. 105–33, title V, §5549, Aug. 5, 1997, 111 Stat. 633.)
Editorial Notes
References in Text
For effective date of this section, referred to in subsec. (b)(4), see Effective Date note below.
Amendments
1997—Subsec. (c)(1). Pub. L. 105–33 inserted at end "The date of collection for amounts collected and distributed under this part is the date of receipt by the State disbursement unit, except that if current support is withheld by an employer in the month when due and is received by the State disbursement unit in a month other than the month when due, the date of withholding may be deemed to be the date of collection."
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 1997 Amendment
Amendment by Pub. L. 105–33 effective as if included in the enactment of title III of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996, Pub. L. 104–193, see section 5557 of Pub. L. 105–33, set out as a note under section 608 of this title.
Effective Date
Pub. L. 104–193, title III, §312(d), Aug. 22, 1996, 110 Stat. 2209, provided that:
"(1) In general.—Except as provided in paragraph (2), the amendments made by this section [enacting this section and amending sections 654 and 654a of this title] shall become effective on October 1, 1998.
"(2) Limited exception to unit handling payments.—Notwithstanding section 454B(b)(1) of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 654b(b)(1)], as added by this section, any State which, as of the date of the enactment of this Act [Aug. 22, 1996], processes the receipt of child support payments through local courts may, at the option of the State, continue to process through September 30, 1999, such payments through such courts as processed such payments on or before such date of enactment."
For provisions relating to effective date of title III of Pub. L. 104–193, see section 395(a)–(c) of Pub. L. 104–193, set out as an Effective Date of 1996 Amendment note under section 654 of this title.
§655. Payments to States
(a) Amounts payable each quarter
(1) From the sums appropriated therefor, the Secretary shall pay to each State for each quarter an amount—
(A) equal to the percent specified in paragraph (2) of the total amounts expended by such State during such quarter for the operation of the plan approved under section 654 of this title,
(B) equal to the percent specified in paragraph (3) of the sums expended during such quarter that are attributable to the planning, design, development, installation or enhancement of an automatic data processing and information retrieval system (including in such sums the full cost of the hardware components of such system); and 1
(C) equal to 66 percent of so much of the sums expended during such quarter as are attributable to laboratory costs incurred in determining paternity, and
(D) equal to 66 percent of the sums expended by the State during the quarter for an alternative statewide system for which a waiver has been granted under section 652(d)(3) of this title, but only to the extent that the total of the sums so expended by the State on or after July 16, 1998, does not exceed the least total cost estimate submitted by the State pursuant to section 652(d)(3)(C) of this title in the request for the waiver;
except that no amount shall be paid to any State on account of amounts expended from amounts paid to the State under section 658a of this title or to carry out an agreement which it has entered into pursuant to section 663 of this title. In determining the total amounts expended by any State during a quarter, for purposes of this subsection, there shall be excluded an amount equal to the total of any fees collected or other income resulting from services provided under the plan approved under this part.
(2) The percent applicable to quarters in a fiscal year for purposes of paragraph (1)(A) is—
(A) 70 percent for fiscal years 1984, 1985, 1986, and 1987,
(B) 68 percent for fiscal years 1988 and 1989, and
(C) 66 percent for fiscal year 1990 and each fiscal year thereafter.
(3)(A) The Secretary shall pay to each State, for each quarter in fiscal years 1996 and 1997, 90 percent of so much of the State expenditures described in paragraph (1)(B) as the Secretary finds are for a system meeting the requirements specified in section 654(16) of this title (as in effect on September 30, 1995) but limited to the amount approved for States in the advance planning documents of such States submitted on or before September 30, 1995.
(B)(i) The Secretary shall pay to each State or system described in clause (iii), for each quarter in fiscal years 1996 through 2001, the percentage specified in clause (ii) of so much of the State or system expenditures described in paragraph (1)(B) as the Secretary finds are for a system meeting the requirements of sections 654(16) and 654a of this title.
(ii) The percentage specified in this clause is 80 percent.
(iii) For purposes of clause (i), a system described in this clause is a system that has been approved by the Secretary to receive enhanced funding pursuant to the Family Support Act of 1988 (Public Law 100–485; 102 Stat. 2343) for the purpose of developing a system that meets the requirements of sections 654(16) of this title (as in effect on and after September 30, 1995) and 654a of this title, including systems that have received funding for such purpose pursuant to a waiver under section 1315(a) of this title.
(4)(A)(i) If—
(I) the Secretary determines that a State plan under section 654 of this title would (in the absence of this paragraph) be disapproved for the failure of the State to comply with a particular subparagraph of section 654(24) of this title, and that the State has made and is continuing to make a good faith effort to so comply; and
(II) the State has submitted to the Secretary a corrective compliance plan that describes how, by when, and at what cost the State will achieve such compliance, which has been approved by the Secretary,
then the Secretary shall not disapprove the State plan under section 654 of this title, and the Secretary shall reduce the amount otherwise payable to the State under paragraph (1)(A) of this subsection for the fiscal year by the penalty amount.
(ii) All failures of a State during a fiscal year to comply with any of the requirements referred to in the same subparagraph of section 654(24) of this title shall be considered a single failure of the State to comply with that subparagraph during the fiscal year for purposes of this paragraph.
(B) In this paragraph:
(i) The term "penalty amount" means, with respect to a failure of a State to comply with a subparagraph of section 654(24) of this title—
(I) 4 percent of the penalty base, in the case of the first fiscal year in which such a failure by the State occurs (regardless of whether a penalty is imposed under this paragraph with respect to the failure);
(II) 8 percent of the penalty base, in the case of the second such fiscal year;
(III) 16 percent of the penalty base, in the case of the third such fiscal year;
(IV) 25 percent of the penalty base, in the case of the fourth such fiscal year; or
(V) 30 percent of the penalty base, in the case of the fifth or any subsequent such fiscal year.
(ii) The term "penalty base" means, with respect to a failure of a State to comply with a subparagraph of section 654(24) of this title during a fiscal year, the amount otherwise payable to the State under paragraph (1)(A) of this subsection for the preceding fiscal year.
(C)(i) The Secretary shall waive a penalty under this paragraph for any failure of a State to comply with section 654(24)(A) of this title during fiscal year 1998 if—
(I) on or before August 1, 1998, the State has submitted to the Secretary a request that the Secretary certify the State as having met the requirements of such section;
(II) the Secretary subsequently provides the certification as a result of a timely review conducted pursuant to the request; and
(III) the State has not failed such a review.
(ii) If a State with respect to which a reduction is made under this paragraph for a fiscal year with respect to a failure to comply with a subparagraph of section 654(24) of this title achieves compliance with such subparagraph by the beginning of the succeeding fiscal year, the Secretary shall increase the amount otherwise payable to the State under paragraph (1)(A) of this subsection for the succeeding fiscal year by an amount equal to 90 percent of the reduction for the fiscal year.
(iii) The Secretary shall reduce the amount of any reduction that, in the absence of this clause, would be required to be made under this paragraph by reason of the failure of a State to achieve compliance with section 654(24)(B) of this title during the fiscal year, by an amount equal to 20 percent of the amount of the otherwise required reduction, for each State performance measure described in section 658a(b)(4) of this title with respect to which the applicable percentage under section 658a(b)(6) of this title for the fiscal year is 100 percent, if the Secretary has made the determination described in section 658a(b)(5)(B) of this title with respect to the State for the fiscal year.
(D) The Secretary may not impose a penalty under this paragraph against a State with respect to a failure to comply with section 654(24)(B) of this title for a fiscal year if the Secretary is required to impose a penalty under this paragraph against the State with respect to a failure to comply with section 654(24)(A) of this title for the fiscal year.
(5)(A)(i) If—
(I) the Secretary determines that a State plan under section 654 of this title would (in the absence of this paragraph) be disapproved for the failure of the State to comply with subparagraphs (A) and (B)(i) of section 654(27) of this title, and that the State has made and is continuing to make a good faith effort to so comply; and
(II) the State has submitted to the Secretary, not later than April 1, 2000, a corrective compliance plan that describes how, by when, and at what cost the State will achieve such compliance, which has been approved by the Secretary,
then the Secretary shall not disapprove the State plan under section 654 of this title, and the Secretary shall reduce the amount otherwise payable to the State under paragraph (1)(A) of this subsection for the fiscal year by the penalty amount.
(ii) All failures of a State during a fiscal year to comply with any of the requirements of section 654B of this title shall be considered a single failure of the State to comply with subparagraphs (A) and (B)(i) of section 654(27) of this title during the fiscal year for purposes of this paragraph.
(B) In this paragraph:
(i) The term "penalty amount" means, with respect to a failure of a State to comply with subparagraphs (A) and (B)(i) of section 654(27) of this title—
(I) 4 percent of the penalty base, in the case of the 1st fiscal year in which such a failure by the State occurs (regardless of whether a penalty is imposed in that fiscal year under this paragraph with respect to the failure), except as provided in subparagraph (C)(ii) of this paragraph;
(II) 8 percent of the penalty base, in the case of the 2nd such fiscal year;
(III) 16 percent of the penalty base, in the case of the 3rd such fiscal year;
(IV) 25 percent of the penalty base, in the case of the 4th such fiscal year; or
(V) 30 percent of the penalty base, in the case of the 5th or any subsequent such fiscal year.
(ii) The term "penalty base" means, with respect to a failure of a State to comply with subparagraphs (A) and (B)(i) of section 654(27) of this title during a fiscal year, the amount otherwise payable to the State under paragraph (1)(A) of this subsection for the preceding fiscal year.
(C)(i) The Secretary shall waive all penalties imposed against a State under this paragraph for any failure of the State to comply with subparagraphs (A) and (B)(i) of section 654(27) of this title if the Secretary determines that, before April 1, 2000, the State has achieved such compliance.
(ii) If a State with respect to which a reduction is required to be made under this paragraph with respect to a failure to comply with subparagraphs (A) and (B)(i) of section 654(27) of this title achieves such compliance on or after April 1, 2000, and on or before September 30, 2000, then the penalty amount applicable to the State shall be 1 percent of the penalty base with respect to the failure involved.
(D) The Secretary may not impose a penalty under this paragraph against a State for a fiscal year for which the amount otherwise payable to the State under paragraph (1)(A) of this subsection is reduced under paragraph (4) of this subsection for failure to comply with section 654(24)(A) of this title.
(b) Estimate of amounts payable; installment payments
(1) Prior to the beginning of each quarter, the Secretary shall estimate the amount to which a State will be entitled under subsection (a) for such quarter, such estimates to be based on (A) a report filed by the State containing its estimate of the total sum to be expended in such quarter in accordance with the provisions of such subsection, and stating the amount appropriated or made available by the State and its political subdivisions for such expenditures in such quarter, and if such amount is less than the State's proportionate share of the total sum of such estimated expenditures, the source or sources from which the difference is expected to be derived, and (B) such other investigation as the Secretary may find necessary.
(2) Subject to subsection (d), the Secretary shall then pay, in such installments as he may determine, to the State the amount so estimated, reduced or increased to the extent of any overpayment or underpayment which the Secretary determines was made under this section to such State for any prior quarter and with respect to which adjustment has not already been made under this subsection.
(3) Upon the making of any estimate by the Secretary under this subsection, any appropriations available for payments under this section shall be deemed obligated.
(d) State reports
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, no amount shall be paid to any State under this section for any quarter, prior to the close of such quarter, unless for the period consisting of all prior quarters for which payment is authorized to be made to such State under subsection (a), there shall have been submitted by the State to the Secretary, with respect to each quarter in such period (other than the last two quarters in such period), a full and complete report (in such form and manner and containing such information as the Secretary shall prescribe or require) as to the amount of child support collected and disbursed and all expenditures with respect to which payment is authorized under subsection (a).
(e) Special project grants for interstate enforcement; appropriations
(1) In order to encourage and promote the development and use of more effective methods of enforcing support obligations under this part in cases where either the children on whose behalf the support is sought or their noncustodial parents do not reside in the State where such cases are filed, the Secretary is authorized to make grants, in such amounts and on such terms and conditions as the Secretary determines to be appropriate, to States which propose to undertake new or innovative methods of support collection in such cases and which will use the proceeds of such grants to carry out special projects designed to demonstrate and test such methods.
(2) A grant under this subsection shall be made only upon a finding by the Secretary that the project involved is likely to be of significant assistance in carrying out the purpose of this subsection; and with respect to such project the Secretary may waive any of the requirements of this part which would otherwise be applicable, to such extent and for such period as the Secretary determines is necessary or desirable in order to enable the State to carry out the project.
(3) At the time of its application for a grant under this subsection the State shall submit to the Secretary a statement describing in reasonable detail the project for which the proceeds of the grant are to be used, and the State shall from time to time thereafter submit to the Secretary such reports with respect to the project as the Secretary may specify.
(4) Amounts expended by a State in carrying out a special project assisted under this section shall be considered, for purposes of section 658(b) 2 of this title (as amended by section 5(a) of the Child Support Enforcement Amendments of 1984), to have been expended for the operation of the State's plan approved under section 654 of this title.
(5) There is authorized to be appropriated the sum of $7,000,000 for fiscal year 1985, $12,000,000 for fiscal year 1986, and $15,000,000 for each fiscal year thereafter, to be used by the Secretary in making grants under this subsection.
(f) Direct Federal funding to Indian tribes and tribal organizations
The Secretary may make direct payments under this part to an Indian tribe or tribal organization that demonstrates to the satisfaction of the Secretary that it has the capacity to operate a child support enforcement program meeting the objectives of this part, including establishment of paternity, establishment, modification, and enforcement of support orders, and location of absent parents. The Secretary shall promulgate regulations establishing the requirements which must be met by an Indian tribe or tribal organization to be eligible for a grant under this subsection.
(Aug. 14, 1935, ch. 531, title IV, §455, as added Pub. L. 93–647, §101(a), Jan. 4, 1975, 88 Stat. 2355; amended Pub. L. 94–88, title II, §§201(c), 205, Aug. 9, 1975, 89 Stat. 433, 435; Pub. L. 94–365, §3, July 14, 1976, 90 Stat. 990; Pub. L. 95–59, §4, June 30, 1977, 91 Stat. 255; Pub. L. 96–178, §2(a), Jan. 2, 1980, 93 Stat. 1295; Pub. L. 96–265, title IV, §§404(a), 405(a), 407(a), (b), June 9, 1980, 94 Stat. 463, 467; Pub. L. 96–611, §§9(c), 11(c), Dec. 28, 1980, 94 Stat. 3573, 3574; Pub. L. 97–35, title XXIII, §2333(c), Aug. 13, 1981, 95 Stat. 863; Pub. L. 97–248, title I, §§171(b)(2), 174(a), (b), Sept. 3, 1982, 96 Stat. 401, 403; Pub. L. 98–378, §§4(a), 6(b), 8, Aug. 16, 1984, 98 Stat. 1311, 1314, 1315; Pub. L. 100–485, title I, §§112(a), 123(c), Oct. 13, 1988, 102 Stat. 2350, 2352; Pub. L. 104–193, title III, §§344(b)(1), (c), 375(b), 395(d)(1)(E), Aug. 22, 1996, 110 Stat. 2236, 2237, 2256, 2259; Pub. L. 105–33, title V, §§5546(b), (c), 5555(a), Aug. 5, 1997, 111 Stat. 631, 632, 636; Pub. L. 105–200, title I, §§101(a), 102(b), title II, §201(f)(2)(B), July 16, 1998, 112 Stat. 646, 648, 658; Pub. L. 105–306, §4(a)(1), Oct. 28, 1998, 112 Stat. 2926; Pub. L. 106–113, div. B, §1000(a)(4) [title VIII, §807(a)], Nov. 29, 1999, 113 Stat. 1535, 1501A-286; Pub. L. 106–169, title IV, §401(i), Dec. 14, 1999, 113 Stat. 1858; Pub. L. 109–171, title VII, §§7308(a), 7309(a), Feb. 8, 2006, 120 Stat. 147.)
Editorial Notes
References in Text
The Family Support Act of 1988, referred to in subsec. (a)(3)(B)(iii), is Pub. L. 100–485, Oct. 13, 1988, 102 Stat. 2343. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title of 1988 Amendments note set out under section 1305 of this title and Tables.
Section 658(b) of this title (as amended by section 5(a) of the Child Support Enforcement Amendments of 1984), referred to in subsec. (e)(4), was in the original a reference to "section 458(b)", meaning section 458(b) of act of Aug. 14, 1935, as amended by section 5(a) of Pub. L. 98–378, which was classified to section 658(b) of this title. Pub. L. 105–200, title II, §201(f)(1), (2)(A), July 16, 1998, 112 Stat. 657, 658, repealed section 458 and renumbered section 458A of the act of Aug. 14, 1935, as section 458, which is classified to section 658a of this title.
Amendments
2006—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 109–171, §7309(a), inserted "from amounts paid to the State under section 658a of this title or" before "to carry out an agreement" in concluding provisions.
Subsec. (a)(1)(C). Pub. L. 109–171, §7308(a), substituted "66 percent" for "90 percent (rather than the percentage specified in subparagraph (A))".
1999—Subsec. (a)(1)(B). Pub. L. 106–169 amended Pub. L. 104–193, §344(b)(1)(A). See 1996 Amendment note below.
Subsec. (a)(5). Pub. L. 106–113 added par. (5).
1998—Subsec. (a)(1)(D). Pub. L. 105–200, §102(b), added subpar. (D).
Subsec. (a)(4). Pub. L. 105–200, §101(a), added par. (4).
Subsec. (a)(4)(C)(iii). Pub. L. 105–306 added cl. (iii).
Pub. L. 105–200, §201(f)(2)(B), made technical amendments to references in original act which appear in text as references to section 658a(b)(4), section 658a(b)(6), and section 658a(b)(5)(B) of this title.
1997—Subsec. (a)(3)(B)(i). Pub. L. 105–33, §5555(a)(1), inserted "or system described in clause (iii)" after "each State" and "or system" after "the State".
Subsec. (a)(3)(B)(iii). Pub. L. 105–33, §5555(a)(2), added cl. (iii).
Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 105–33, §5546(b), redesignated subsec. (b), relating to direct Federal funding to Indian tribes and tribal organizations, as (f).
Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 105–33, §5546(c), amended heading and text of subsec. (f) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: "The Secretary may, in appropriate cases, make direct payments under this part to an Indian tribe or tribal organization which has an approved child support enforcement plan under this subchapter. In determining whether such payments are appropriate, the Secretary shall, at a minimum, consider whether services are being provided to eligible Indian recipients by the State agency through an agreement entered into pursuant to section 654(34) of this title."
Pub. L. 105–33, §5546(b), redesignated subsec. (b), relating to direct Federal funding to Indian tribes and tribal organizations, as (f).
1996—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 104–193, §344(c), which directed repeal of Pub. L. 100–485, §123(c), was executed by restoring the provisions of this section amended by §123(c) to read as if §123(c) had not been enacted, to reflect the probable intent of Congress. See 1988 Amendment note below.
Subsec. (a)(1)(B). Pub. L. 104–193, §344(b)(1)(A), as amended by Pub. L. 106–169, added subpar. (B) and struck out former subpar. (B) which read as follows: "equal to 90 percent (rather than the percent specified in subparagraph (A)) of so much of the sums expended during such quarter as are attributable to the planning, design, development, installation or enhancement of an automatic data processing and information retrieval system (including in such sums the full cost of the hardware components of such system) which the Secretary finds meets the requirements specified in section 654(16) of this title, or meets such requirements without regard to clause (D) thereof, and".
Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 104–193, §344(b)(1)(B), added par. (3).
Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 104–193, §375(b), added subsec. (b) relating to direct Federal funding to Indian tribes and tribal organizations.
Subsec. (e)(1). Pub. L. 104–193, §395(d)(1)(E), substituted "noncustodial parents" for "absent parents".
1988—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 100–485, §123(c), which directed striking subpars. (A) and (B), redesignating subpar. (C) as (A), striking "(rather than the percentage specified in subparagraph (A))" and inserting "and" after the semicolon in subpar. (A), and adding new subpar. (B) which read "equal to the percent specified in paragraph (2) of the total amounts expended by such State during such quarter for the operation of the plan approved under section 654 of this title;", was repealed by Pub. L. 104–193, §344(c).
Subsec. (a)(1)(C). Pub. L. 100–485, §112(a), added subpar. (C).
1984—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 98–378, §4(a)(1)–(5), designated existing provisions as par. (1) and in par. (1) as so designated, struck out ", beginning with the quarter commencing July 1, 1975," after "for each quarter", substituted subpar. (A) for former par. (1) which provided for an amount equal to 70 percent of the total amounts expended by the State during the quarter for the operation of the plan approved under section 654 of this title, struck out former par. (2) which provided for an amount equal to 50 percent of the total amounts expended by the State during the quarter for the operation of a plan which met the conditions of section 654 of this title except as was provided by a waiver by the Secretary which was granted pursuant to specific authority set forth in the law, redesignated former par. (3) as subpar. (B) of par. (1), and in subpar. (B) as so redesignated, substituted "subparagraph (A)" for "clause (1) or (2)", and inserted "(including in such sums the full cost of the hardware components of such system)" and ", or meets such requirements without regard to clause (D) thereof".
Subsec. (a)(2). Pub. L. 98–378, §4(a)(6), added par. (2). Former par. (2) was struck out.
Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 98–378, §4(a)(3), redesignated par. (3) of subsec. (a) as subpar. (B) of subsec. (a)(1).
Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 98–378, §8, added subsec. (e).
1982—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 97–248, §174(a), substituted "70 percent" for "75 percent".
Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 97–248, §174(b), struck out subsec. (c) which had provided that expenditures of courts of a State or its political subdivisions in connection with performance of services related to the operation of a plan approved under section 654 of this title, would be included in determining the amounts expended by a State during any quarter for the operation of such plan, that the aggregate amount of such expenditures would be reduced by the total amount of those expenditures made by a State for the 12-month period beginning on Jan. 1, 1978, and that a State agency could, under State law, pay the courts of the State from amounts received under subsec. (a) of this section.
1981—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 97–35, as amended by Pub. L. 97–248, §171(b)(2), inserted provision that in determining the total amounts expended by any State during a quarter, for purposes of this subsection, there be excluded an amount equal to the total of any fees collected or other income resulting from services provided under the plan approved under this part.
1980—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 96–611, §9(c), inserted provision following par. (3) that no amount shall be paid to any State on account of amounts expended to carry out an agreement which it has entered into pursuant to section 663 of this title.
Pub. L. 96–611, §11(c), which was intended to make a technical correction in par. (3) by substituting a period for the semicolon at the end thereof, was not executed in view of the amendment by section 9(c) of Pub. L. 96–611 inserting provision following par. (3).
Pub. L. 96–265, §405(a), added par. (3).
Pub. L. 96–178 struck out provisions following par. (2) prohibiting payment to any State on account of furnishing child support collection or paternity determination services (other than the parent locator services) to individuals under section 654(6) of this title during any period beginning after Sept. 30, 1978.
Subsec. (b)(2). Pub. L. 96–265, §407(a), substituted "Subject to subsection (d), the Secretary" for "The Secretary".
Subsecs. (c), (d). Pub. L. 96–265, §§404(a), 407(b), added subsecs. (c) and (d).
1977—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 95–59 substituted "September 30, 1978" for "June 30, 1977" in provisions following par. (2).
1976—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 94–365 substituted "June 30, 1977" for "June 30, 1976".
1975—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 94–88, §§201(c), 205, designated existing provisions as subsec. (a), and inserted provisions authorizing Secretary to pay to each State for each quarter beginning with the quarter commencing July 1, 1975, an amount equal to 50 per cent of the total amounts expended by such State during such quarter for the operation of a plan which meets the conditions of section 654 of this title except as is provided by a waiver by the Secretary which is granted pursuant to specific authority set forth in the law.
Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 94–88, §205, added subsec. (b).
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 2006 Amendment
Pub. L. 109–171, title VII, §7308(b), Feb. 8, 2006, 120 Stat. 147, provided that: "The amendment made by subsection (a) [amending this section] shall take effect on October 1, 2006, and shall apply to costs incurred on or after that date."
Pub. L. 109–171, title VII, §7309(b), Feb. 8, 2006, 120 Stat. 147, provided that: "The amendment made by subsection (a) [amending this section] shall take effect on October 1, 2007."
Effective Date of 1999 Amendments
Amendment by Pub. L. 106–169 effective as if included in the enactment of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996, Pub. L. 104–193, see section 401(q) of Pub. L. 106–169, set out as a note under section 602 of this title.
Amendment by Pub. L. 106–113 effective Oct. 1, 1999, see section 1000(a)(4) [title VIII, §807(c)] of Pub. L. 106–113, set out as a note under section 609 of this title.
Effective Date of 1998 Amendments
Pub. L. 105–306, §4(a)(2), Oct. 28, 1998, 112 Stat. 2927, provided that: "The amendment made by paragraph (1) of this subsection [amending this section] shall take effect as if included in the enactment of section 101(a) of the Child Support Performance and Incentive Act of 1998 [Pub. L. 105–200, amending this section], and the amendment shall be considered to have been added by section 101(a) of such Act for purposes of section 201(f)(2)(B) of such Act [amending this section]."
Pub. L. 105–200, title II, §201(f)(3), July 16, 1998, 112 Stat. 658, provided that: "The amendments made by this subsection [amending this section, renumbering section 658a as section 658 of this title, and repealing former section 658 of this title] shall take effect on October 1, 2001."
Effective Date of 1997 Amendment
Amendment by Pub. L. 105–33 effective as if included in the enactment of title III of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996, Pub. L. 104–193, see section 5557 of Pub. L. 105–33, set out as a note under section 608 of this title.
Effective Date of 1996 Amendment
For effective date of amendment by Pub. L. 104–193, see section 395(a)–(c) of Pub. L. 104–193, set out as a note under section 654 of this title.
Effective Date of 1988 Amendment
Pub. L. 100–485, title I, §112(b), Oct. 13, 1988, 102 Stat. 2350, provided that: "The amendments made by subsection (a) [amending this section] shall apply with respect to laboratory costs incurred on or after October 1, 1988."
Pub. L. 100–485, title I, §123(c), Oct. 13, 1988, 102 Stat. 2352, which provided that the amendment made by that section was effective Sept. 30, 1995, was repealed by Pub. L. 104–193, title III, §344(c), Aug. 22, 1996, 110 Stat. 2237.
Effective Date of 1984 Amendment
Amendment by section 4(a) of Pub. L. 98–378 applicable to fiscal years after fiscal year 1983, see section 4(c) of Pub. L. 98–378, set out as a note under section 652 of this title.
Amendment by section 6(b) of Pub. L. 98–378 applicable with respect to quarters beginning on or after Oct. 1, 1984, see section 6(c) of Pub. L. 98–378, set out as a note under section 654 of this title.
Effective Date of 1982 Amendment
Amendment by section 171(b)(2) of Pub. L. 97–248 effective on and after Aug. 13, 1981, see section 171(c) of Pub. L. 97–248, set out as a note under section 503 of this title.
Pub. L. 97–248, title I, §174(d), Sept. 3, 1982, 96 Stat. 403, provided that: "The amendment made by subsection (a) [amending this section] shall apply with respect to quarters beginning on or after October 1, 1982. Subsection (b) [amending this section] shall apply with respect to quarters beginning on or after October 1, 1983; and the amendment made by subsection (c) [amending section 658 of this title] shall apply with respect to amounts collected on or after October 1, 1983."
Effective Date of 1981 Amendment
Amendment by Pub. L. 97–35 effective Oct. 1, 1981, except as otherwise specifically provided, see section 2336 of Pub. L. 97–35, set out as a note under section 651 of this title.
Effective Date of 1980 Amendment
Pub. L. 96–265, title IV, §404(b), June 9, 1980, 94 Stat. 463, provided that: "The amendment made by subsection (a) [amending this section] shall apply with respect to expenditures made by States on or after July 1, 1980."
Amendment by section 405(a) of Pub. L. 96–265 effective July 1, 1981, and to be effective only with respect to expenditures, referred to in subsec. (a)(3) of this section, made on or after such date, see section 405(e) of Pub. L. 96–265, set out as a note under section 652 of this title.
Pub. L. 96–265, title IV, §407(d), June 9, 1980, 94 Stat. 468, provided that: "The amendments made by this section [amending this section and section 603 of this title] shall be effective in the case of calendar quarters commencing on or after January 1, 1981."
Pub. L. 96–178, §2(b), Jan. 2, 1980, 93 Stat. 1295, as amended by Pub. L. 96–272, title III, §301(a), June 17, 1980, 94 Stat. 527, provided that: "This section [amending this section] shall become effective on the date of the enactment of this Act [Jan. 2, 1980], and shall apply with respect to services furnished on or after October 1, 1978."
Effective Date of 1975 Amendment
Amendment by Pub. L. 94–88 effective Aug. 1, 1975, unless otherwise provided, see section 210 of Pub. L. 94–88, set out as a note under section 654 of this title.
Temporary Resumption of Prior Child Support Law
Pub. L. 111–5, div. B, title II, §2104, Feb. 17, 2009, 123 Stat. 449, provided that: "During the period that begins on October 1, 2008, and ends on September 30, 2010, section 455(a)(1) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 655(a)(1)) shall be applied and administered as if the phrase 'from amounts paid to the State under section 458 [42 U.S.C. 658a] or' does not appear in such section."
Temporary Limitation on Payments Under Special Federal Matching Rate
Pub. L. 104–193, title III, §344(b)(2), Aug. 22, 1996, 110 Stat. 2236, as amended by Pub. L. 105–33, title V, §5555(b), Aug. 5, 1997, 111 Stat. 637, provided that:
"(A) In general.—The Secretary of Health and Human Services may not pay more than $400,000,000 in the aggregate under section 455(a)(3)(B) of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 655(a)(3)(B)] for fiscal years 1996 through 2001.
"(B) Allocation of limitation among states.—The total amount payable to a State or a system described in subparagraph (C) under section 455(a)(3)(B) of such Act for fiscal years 1996 through 2001 shall not exceed the limitation determined for the State or system by the Secretary of Health and Human Services in regulations.
"(C) Allocation formula.—The regulations referred to in subparagraph (B) shall prescribe a formula for allocating the amount specified in subparagraph (A) among States with plans approved under part D of title IV of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 651 et seq.], and among systems that have been approved by the Secretary to receive enhanced funding pursuant to the Family Support Act of 1988 (Public Law 100–485; 102 Stat. 2343) for the purpose of developing a system that meets the requirements of sections 454(16) (as in effect on and after September 30, 1995) and 454A [probably means sections 454(16) and 454A of the Social Security Act which are classified to sections 654(16) and 654a, respectively, of this title], including systems that have received funding for such purpose pursuant to a waiver under section 1115(a) [probably means section 1115(a) of the Social Security Act which is classified to section 1315(a) of this title], which shall take into account—
"(i) the relative size of such State and system caseloads under part D of title IV of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 651 et seq.]; and
"(ii) the level of automation needed to meet the automated data processing requirements of such part."
Payments to States for Certain Expenses Incurred During July 1975
Pub. L. 94–88, title II, §206, Aug. 9, 1975, 89 Stat. 435, provided that amounts expended in good faith by any State during July 1975 in certain ways in preparation for or implementation of the child support program under this part were to be considered for purposes of this section, to the extent that payment for the expenses incurred would have been made under the terms of this section, had the amendment by section 101 of Pub. L. 93–647 been effective on July 1, 1975, to have been expended by the State for the operation of the State plan or for the conduct of activities specified in this section.
§655a. Provision for reimbursement of expenses
For purposes of section 655 of this title, expenses incurred to reimburse State employment offices for furnishing information requested of such offices—
(1) pursuant to section 49b(b) of title 29, or
(2) by a State or local agency charged with the duty of carrying a State plan for child support approved under this part,
shall be considered to constitute expenses incurred in the administration of such State plan.
(Pub. L. 94–566, title V, §508(b), Oct. 20, 1976, 90 Stat. 2689; Pub. L. 104–193, title I, §110(a), Aug. 22, 1996, 110 Stat. 2171; Pub. L. 105–220, title III, §302(b), Aug. 7, 1998, 112 Stat. 1081.)
Editorial Notes
Codification
Section was formerly classified to section 603a of this title.
Section was not enacted as part of the Social Security Act which comprises this chapter.
Amendments
1998—Par. (1). Pub. L. 105–220 substituted "section 49b(b) of title 29" for "the third sentence of section 49b(a) of title 29".
1996—Pub. L. 104–193 amended section catchline and text generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: "For purposes of section 603 of this title, expenses incurred to reimburse State employment offices for furnishing information requested of such offices pursuant to the third sentence of section 49b(a) of title 29, by a State or local agency administering a State plan approved under part A of this subchapter shall be considered to constitute expenses incurred in the administration of such State plan; and for purposes of section 655 of this title, expenses incurred to reimburse State employment offices for furnishing information so requested by a State or local agency charged with the duty of carrying out a State plan for child support approved under part D of this subchapter shall be considered to constitute expenses incurred in the administration of such State plan."
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 1998 Amendment
Amendment by Pub. L. 105–220 effective July 1, 1999, see section 311 of Pub. L. 105–220, formerly set out as a note under section 49a of Title 29, Labor.
Effective Date of 1996 Amendment
Amendment by Pub. L. 104–193 effective July 1, 1997, with transition rules relating to State options to accelerate such date, rules relating to claims, actions, and proceedings commenced before such date, rules relating to closing out of accounts for terminated or substantially modified programs and continuance in office of Assistant Secretary for Family Support, and provisions relating to termination of entitlement under AFDC program, see section 116 of Pub. L. 104–193, as amended, set out as an Effective Date note under section 601 of this title.
§656. Support obligation as obligation to State; amount; discharge in bankruptcy
(a) Collection processes
(1) The support rights assigned to the State pursuant to section 608(a)(3) of this title or secured on behalf of a child receiving foster care maintenance payments shall constitute an obligation owed to such State by the individual responsible for providing such support. Such obligation shall be deemed for collection purposes to be collectible under all applicable State and local processes.
(2) The amount of such obligation shall be—
(A) the amount specified in a court order which covers the assigned support rights, or
(B) if there is no court order, an amount determined by the State in accordance with a formula approved by the Secretary.
(3) Any amounts collected from a noncustodial parent under the plan shall reduce, dollar for dollar, the amount of his obligation under subparagraphs (A) and (B) of paragraph (2).
(b) Nondischargeability
A debt (as defined in section 101 of title 11) owed under State law to a State (as defined in such section) or municipality (as defined in such section) that is in the nature of support and that is enforceable under this part is not released by a discharge in bankruptcy under title 11.
(Aug. 14, 1935, ch. 531, title IV, §456, as added Pub. L. 93–647, §101(a), Jan. 4, 1975, 88 Stat. 2356; amended Pub. L. 95–598, title III, §328, Nov. 6, 1978, 92 Stat. 2679; Pub. L. 97–35, title XXIII, §2334(a), Aug. 13, 1981, 95 Stat. 863; Pub. L. 98–369, div. B, title VI, §2663(c)(15), July 18, 1984, 98 Stat. 1167; Pub. L. 98–378, §11(b)(2), Aug. 16, 1984, 98 Stat. 1318; Pub. L. 104–193, title I, §108(c)(13), title III, §§374(b), 395(d)(2)(C), Aug. 22, 1996, 110 Stat. 2166, 2255, 2260; Pub. L. 105–33, title V, §§5513(a)(3), 5556(d), Aug. 5, 1997, 111 Stat. 619, 637.)
Editorial Notes
Amendments
1997—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 105–33, §5513(a)(3), amended Pub. L. 104–193, §108(c)(13). See 1996 Amendment note below.
Subsec. (a)(2)(B). Pub. L. 105–33, §5556(d), substituted "Secretary." for "Secretary, and".
1996—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 104–193, §108(c)(13), as amended by Pub. L. 105–33, §5513(a)(3), substituted "pursuant to section 608(a)(3) of this title" for "under section 602(a)(26) of this title".
Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 104–193, §395(d)(2)(C), substituted "a noncustodial parent" for "an absent parent".
Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 104–193, §374(b), inserted heading and amended text generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: "A debt which is a child support obligation assigned to a State under section 602(a)(26) of this title is not released by a discharge in bankruptcy under title 11."
1984—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 98–378, §11(b)(2), inserted "or secured on behalf of a child receiving foster care maintenance payments" after "section 602(a)(26) of this title".
Pub. L. 98–369, §2663(c)(15)(A), designated existing unenumerated provisions as par. (1). Former par. (1) redesignated (2).
Subsec. (a)(2). Pub. L. 98–369, §2663(c)(15)(B), redesignated former par. (1) as (2). Former par. (2) redesignated (3).
Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 98–369, §2663(c)(15)(C), (D), redesignated former par. (2) as (3) and substituted "subparagraphs (A) and (B) of paragraph (2)" for "paragraphs (1)(A) and (B)".
1981—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 97–35 added subsec. (b).
1978—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 95–598 repealed provision declaring a debt which is a child support obligation assigned to a State under section 602(a)(26) of this title as not released by a discharge in bankruptcy under the Bankruptcy Act.
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 1997 Amendment
Amendment by section 5513(a)(3) of Pub. L. 105–33 effective as if included in section 108 of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996, Pub. L. 104–193, at the time such section 108 became law, see section 5518(b) of Pub. L. 105–33, set out as a note under section 652 of this title.
Amendment by section 5556(d) of Pub. L. 105–33 effective as if included in the enactment of title III of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996, Pub. L. 104–193, see section 5557 of Pub. L. 105–33, set out as a note under section 608 of this title.
Effective Date of 1996 Amendment
Amendment by section 108(c)(13) of Pub. L. 104–193 effective July 1, 1997, with transition rules relating to State options to accelerate such date, rules relating to claims, actions, and proceedings commenced before such date, rules relating to closing out of accounts for terminated or substantially modified programs and continuance in office of Assistant Secretary for Family Support, and provisions relating to termination of entitlement under AFDC program, see section 116 of Pub. L. 104–193, as amended, set out as an Effective Date note under section 601 of this title.
Amendment by section 374(b) of Pub. L. 104–193 applicable only with respect to cases commenced under Title 11, Bankruptcy, after Aug. 22, 1996, see section 374(c) of Pub. L. 104–193, set out as a note under section 523 of Title 11.
For provisions relating to effective date of title III of Pub. L. 104–193, see section 395(a)–(c) of Pub. L. 104–193, set out as a note under section 654 of this title.
Effective Date of 1984 Amendments
Amendment by Pub. L. 98–378 effective Oct. 1, 1984, and applicable to collections made on or after that date, see section 11(e) of Pub. L. 98–378, set out as a note under section 654 of this title.
Amendment by Pub. L. 98–369 effective July 18, 1984, but not to be construed as changing or affecting any right, liability, status, or interpretation which existed (under the provisions of law involved) before that date, see section 2664(b) of Pub. L. 98–369, set out as a note under section 401 of this title.
Effective Date of 1981 Amendment
Pub. L. 97–35, title XXIII, §2334(c), Aug. 13, 1981, 95 Stat. 863, provided that: "The amendments made by this section [amending this section and section 523 of Title 11, Bankruptcy] shall become effective on the date of the enactment of this Act [Aug. 13, 1981]."
Effective Date of 1978 Amendment
Amendment by Pub. L. 95–598 effective Nov. 6, 1978, see section 402(d) of Pub. L. 95–598, set out as an Effective Date note preceding section 101 of Title 11, Bankruptcy.
§657. Distribution of collected support
(a) In general
Subject to subsections (d) and (e), the amounts collected on behalf of a family as support by a State pursuant to a plan approved under this part shall be distributed as follows:
(1) Families receiving assistance
In the case of a family receiving assistance from the State, the State shall—
(A) pay to the Federal Government the Federal share of the amount collected, subject to paragraph (3)(A);
(B) retain, or pay to the family, the State share of the amount collected, subject to paragraph (3)(B); and
(C) pay to the family any remaining amount.
(2) Families that formerly received assistance
In the case of a family that formerly received assistance from the State:
(A) Current support
To the extent that the amount collected does not exceed the current support amount, the State shall pay the amount to the family.
(B) Arrearages
Except as otherwise provided in an election made under section 654(34) of this title, to the extent that the amount collected exceeds the current support amount, the State—
(i) shall first pay to the family the excess amount, to the extent necessary to satisfy support arrearages not assigned pursuant to section 608(a)(3) of this title;
(ii) if the amount collected exceeds the amount required to be paid to the family under clause (i), shall—
(I) pay to the Federal Government the Federal share of the excess amount described in this clause, subject to paragraph (3)(A); and
(II) retain, or pay to the family, the State share of the excess amount described in this clause, subject to paragraph (3)(B); and
(iii) shall pay to the family any remaining amount.
(3) Limitations
(A) Federal reimbursements
The total of the amounts paid by the State to the Federal Government under paragraphs (1) and (2) of this subsection with respect to a family shall not exceed the Federal share of the amount assigned with respect to the family pursuant to section 608(a)(3) of this title.
(B) State reimbursements
The total of the amounts retained by the State under paragraphs (1) and (2) of this subsection with respect to a family shall not exceed the State share of the amount assigned with respect to the family pursuant to section 608(a)(3) of this title.
(4) Families that never received assistance
In the case of any other family, the State shall distribute to the family the portion of the amount so collected that remains after withholding any fee pursuant to section 654(6)(B)(ii) of this title.
(5) Families under certain agreements
Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) through (3), in the case of an amount collected for a family in accordance with a cooperative agreement under section 654(33) of this title, the State shall distribute the amount collected pursuant to the terms of the agreement.
(6) State option to pass through additional support with Federal financial participation
(A) Families that formerly received assistance
Notwithstanding paragraph (2), a State shall not be required to pay to the Federal Government the Federal share of an amount collected on behalf of a family that formerly received assistance from the State to the extent that the State pays the amount to the family.
(B) Families that currently receive assistance
(i) In general
Notwithstanding paragraph (1), in the case of a family that receives assistance from the State, a State shall not be required to pay to the Federal Government the Federal share of the excepted portion (as defined in clause (ii)) of any amount collected on behalf of such family during a month to the extent that—
(I) the State pays the excepted portion to the family; and
(II) the excepted portion is disregarded in determining the amount and type of assistance provided to the family under such program.
(ii) Excepted portion defined
For purposes of this subparagraph, the term "excepted portion" means that portion of the amount collected on behalf of a family during a month that does not exceed $100 per month, or in the case of a family that includes 2 or more children, that does not exceed an amount established by the State that is not more than $200 per month.
(b) Continuation of assignments
(1) State option to discontinue pre-1997 support assignments
(A) In general
Any rights to support obligations assigned to a State as a condition of receiving assistance from the State under part A and in effect on September 30, 1997 (or such earlier date on or after August 22, 1996, as the State may choose), may remain assigned after such date.
(B) Distribution of amounts after assignment discontinuation
If a State chooses to discontinue the assignment of a support obligation described in subparagraph (A), the State may treat amounts collected pursuant to the assignment as if the amounts had never been assigned and may distribute the amounts to the family in accordance with subsection (a)(4).
(2) State option to discontinue post-1997 assignments
(A) In general
Any rights to support obligations accruing before the date on which a family first receives assistance under part A that are assigned to a State under that part and in effect before the implementation date of this section may remain assigned after such date.
(B) Distribution of amounts after assignment discontinuation
If a State chooses to discontinue the assignment of a support obligation described in subparagraph (A), the State may treat amounts collected pursuant to the assignment as if the amounts had never been assigned and may distribute the amounts to the family in accordance with subsection (a)(4).
(c) Definitions
As used in subsection (a):
(1) Assistance
The term "assistance from the State" means—
(A) assistance under the State program funded under part A or under the State plan approved under part A of this subchapter (as in effect on the day before August 22, 1996); and
(B) foster care maintenance payments under the State plan approved under part E of this subchapter.
(2) Federal share
The term "Federal share" means that portion of the amount collected resulting from the application of the Federal medical assistance percentage in effect for the fiscal year in which the amount is distributed.
(3) Federal medical assistance percentage
The term "Federal medical assistance percentage" means—
(A) 75 percent, in the case of Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, Guam, and American Samoa; or
(B) the Federal medical assistance percentage (as defined in section 1396d(b) of this title, as such section was in effect on September 30, 1995) in the case of any other State.
(4) State share
The term "State share" means 100 percent minus the Federal share.
(5) Current support amount
The term "current support amount" means, with respect to amounts collected as support on behalf of a family, the amount designated as the monthly support obligation of the noncustodial parent in the order requiring the support or calculated by the State based on the order.
(d) Gap payments not subject to distribution under this section
At State option, this section shall not apply to any amount collected on behalf of a family as support by the State (and paid to the family in addition to the amount of assistance otherwise payable to the family) pursuant to a plan approved under this part if such amount would have been paid to the family by the State under section 602(a)(28) of this title, as in effect and applied on the day before August 22, 1996.
(e) Amounts collected for child for whom foster care maintenance payments are made
Notwithstanding the preceding provisions of this section, amounts collected by a State as child support for months in any period on behalf of a child for whom a public agency is making foster care maintenance payments under part E of this subchapter—
(1) shall be retained by the State to the extent necessary to reimburse it for the foster care maintenance payments made with respect to the child during such period (with appropriate reimbursement of the Federal Government to the extent of its participation in the financing);
(2) shall be paid to the public agency responsible for supervising the placement of the child to the extent that the amounts collected exceed the foster care maintenance payments made with respect to the child during such period but not the amounts required by a court or administrative order to be paid as support on behalf of the child during such period; and the responsible agency may use the payments in the manner it determines will serve the best interests of the child, including setting such payments aside for the child's future needs or making all or a part thereof available to the person responsible for meeting the child's day-to-day needs; and
(3) shall be retained by the State, if any portion of the amounts collected remains after making the payments required under paragraphs (1) and (2), to the extent that such portion is necessary to reimburse the State (with appropriate reimbursement to the Federal Government to the extent of its participation in the financing) for any past foster care maintenance payments (or payments of assistance under the State program funded under part A) which were made with respect to the child (and with respect to which past collections have not previously been retained);
and any balance shall be paid to the State agency responsible for supervising the placement of the child, for use by such agency in accordance with paragraph (2).
(Aug. 14, 1935, ch. 531, title IV, §457, as added Pub. L. 93–647, §101(a), Jan. 4, 1975, 88 Stat. 2356; amended Pub. L. 95–171, §11, Nov. 12, 1977, 91 Stat. 1357; Pub. L. 97–35, title XXIII, §2332(e), Aug. 13, 1981, 95 Stat. 862; Pub. L. 98–369, div. B, title VI, §2640(b), July 18, 1984, 98 Stat. 1145; Pub. L. 98–378, §§7(a), 11(a), Aug. 16, 1984, 98 Stat. 1315, 1317; Pub. L. 99–514, title XVIII, §§1883(b)(6), 1899(a), Oct. 22, 1986, 100 Stat. 2917, 2957; Pub. L. 100–203, title IX, §9141(a)(1), Dec. 22, 1987, 101 Stat. 1330–321; Pub. L. 100–485, title I, §102(b), Oct. 13, 1988, 102 Stat. 2346; Pub. L. 104–193, title III, §302(a), Aug. 22, 1996, 110 Stat. 2200; Pub. L. 105–33, title V, §§5532(a), (b)(1), (c)–(h), 5547, Aug. 5, 1997, 111 Stat. 626, 627, 632; Pub. L. 106–169, title III, §301(a), (c), title IV, §401(j), (k), Dec. 14, 1999, 113 Stat. 1857, 1858; Pub. L. 109–171, title VII, §§7301(b)(1)(A), (B)(i), (iii), (2), (c), 7310(b), Feb. 8, 2006, 120 Stat. 141–143, 147.)
Editorial Notes
Amendments
2006—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 109–171, §7301(b)(1)(A), which directed general amendment of subsec. (a), was executed by adding pars. (1) to (5) and striking out former pars. (1) to (6), to reflect the probable intent of Congress and the amendment by Pub. L. 109–171, §7301(b)(1)(B)(iii). See below. Prior to amendment, pars. (1) to (6) related to families receiving assistance, families that formerly received assistance, families that never received assistance, families under certain agreements, the Secretary's report to Congress, and a State option for applicability, respectively.
Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 109–171, §7310(b), amended heading and text of par. (3) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: "In the case of any other family, the State shall distribute the amount so collected to the family."
Subsec. (a)(6). Pub. L. 109–171, §7301(b)(1)(B)(iii), redesignated par. (7) as (6).
Subsec. (a)(7). Pub. L. 109–171, §7301(b)(1)(B)(iii), redesignated par. (7) as (6).
Pub. L. 109–171, §7301(b)(1)(B)(i), added par. (7).
Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 109–171, §7301(c), amended heading and text of subsec. (b) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: "Any rights to support obligations, assigned to a State as a condition of receiving assistance from the State under part A of this subchapter and in effect on September 30, 1997 (or such earlier date, on or after August 22, 1996, as the State may choose), shall remain assigned after such date."
Subsec. (c)(5). Pub. L. 109–171, §7301(b)(2), added par. (5).
1999—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 106–169, §301(c)(1), substituted "subsections (d) and (e)" for "subsections (e) and (f)" in introductory provisions.
Subsec. (a)(2)(B)(i)(I). Pub. L. 106–169, §401(j), made technical amendment to reference in original act which appears in text as reference to August 22, 1996.
Subsec. (a)(5)(C). Pub. L. 106–169, §401(k), substituted "Opportunity Reconciliation Act" for "Opportunity Act".
Subsecs. (a)(6), (c)(1)(A). Pub. L. 106–169, §401(k), made technical amendment to reference in original act which appears in text as reference to August 22, 1996.
Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 106–169, §301(c)(2), (4), redesignated subsec. (e) as (d) and struck out heading and text of former subsec. (d). Text read as follows: "If—
"(1) the State share of amounts collected in the fiscal year which could be retained to reimburse the State for amounts paid to families as assistance by the State is less than the State share of such amounts collected in fiscal year 1995 (determined in accordance with this section as in effect on August 21, 1996); and
"(2)(A) the State has distributed to families that include an adult receiving assistance under the program under part A of this subchapter at least 80 percent of the current support payments collected during the preceding fiscal year on behalf of such families, and the amounts distributed were disregarded in determining the amount or type of assistance provided under the program under part A of this subchapter; or
"(B) the State has distributed to families that formerly received assistance under the program under part A of this subchapter the State share of the amounts collected pursuant to section 664 of this title that could have been retained as reimbursement for assistance paid to such families,
then the State share otherwise determined for the fiscal year shall be increased by an amount equal to one-half of the amount (if any) by which the State share for fiscal year 1995 exceeds the State share for the fiscal year (determined without regard to this subsection)."
Pub. L. 106–169, §301(a), amended heading and text of subsec. (d) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: "If the amounts collected which could be retained by the State in the fiscal year (to the extent necessary to reimburse the State for amounts paid to families as assistance by the State) are less than the State share of the amounts collected in fiscal year 1995 (determined in accordance with this section as in effect on the day before August 22, 1996), the State share for the fiscal year shall be an amount equal to the State share in fiscal year 1995."
Pub. L. 106–169, §401(k), made technical amendment to reference in original act which appears in text as reference to August 22, 1996.
Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 106–169, §301(c)(4), redesignated subsec. (f) as (e). Former subsec. (e) redesignated (d).
Pub. L. 106–169, §301(c)(3), struck out at end "For purposes of subsection (d) of this section, the State share of such amount paid to the family shall be considered amounts which could be retained by the State if such payments were reported by the State as part of the State share of amounts collected in fiscal year 1995."
Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 106–169, §301(c)(4), redesignated subsec. (f) as (e).
1997—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 105–33, §5547(1), substituted "subsections (e) and (f)" for "subsection (e)" in introductory provisions.
Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 105–33, §5532(c), inserted concluding provisions.
Subsec. (a)(2)(B)(i)(I), (ii)(I). Pub. L. 105–33, §5532(f)(1), in introductory provisions, struck out "(other than subsection (b)(1))" after "provisions of this section" and inserted "(other than subsection (b)(1) (as so in effect))" after "1996".
Subsec. (a)(2)(B)(ii)(II). Pub. L. 105–33, §5532(f)(2), substituted "paragraph (5)" for "paragraph (4)".
Subsec. (a)(4). Pub. L. 105–33, §5532(d), amended heading and text of par. (4) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: "In the case of a family receiving assistance from an Indian tribe, distribute the amount so collected pursuant to an agreement entered into pursuant to a State plan under section 654(33) of this title."
Subsec. (a)(5). Pub. L. 105–33, §5532(e), substituted "1999" for "1998" in introductory provisions.
Subsec. (a)(6). Pub. L. 105–33, §5532(b)(1), added par. (6).
Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 105–33, §5532(a), substituted "assigned" for "which were assigned" and "and in effect on September 30, 1997 (or such earlier date, on or after August 22, 1996, as the State may choose), shall remain assigned after such date." for "and which were in effect on the day before August 22, 1996, shall remain assigned after August 22, 1996."
Subsec. (c)(2). Pub. L. 105–33, §5532(h)(1), substituted "is distributed" for "is collected".
Subsec. (c)(3)(A). Pub. L. 105–33, §5532(g), substituted "75 percent" for "the Federal medical assistance percentage (as defined in section 1318 of this title)".
Subsec. (c)(3)(B). Pub. L. 105–33, §5532(h)(2), substituted "as such section was in effect on September 30, 1995" for "as in effect on September 30, 1996".
Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 105–33, §5547(2), added subsec. (f).
1996—Pub. L. 104–193 substituted "collected support" for "proceeds" in section catchline and amended text generally. Prior to amendment, text consisted of subsecs. (a) to (d) relating to distribution of amounts collected by States as child support during 15 months beginning July 1, 1975, and during any fiscal year beginning after Sept. 30, 1976, distribution of support collected for families whose assistance under part A of this subchapter has terminated, and distribution of support collected on behalf of children for whom foster care maintenance payments were being made.
1988—Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 100–485 substituted "of such amounts as are collected periodically which represent monthly support payments, the first $50 of any payments for a month received in that month, and the first $50 of payments for each prior month received in that month which were made by the absent parent in the month when due," for "the first $50 of such amounts as are collected periodically which represent monthly support payments".
1987—Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 100–203 amended subsec. (c) generally, revising and restating as single unnumbered subsection provisions of former pars. (1) and (2).
1986—Subsec. (b)(3). Pub. L. 99–514, §1899(a), inserted "or administrative" after "court".
Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 99–514, §1883(b)(6), substituted "subsection (b)(4)(A) and (B)" for "subsection (b)(3)(A) and (B)".
1984—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 98–378, §11(a)(2), inserted "(subject to subsection (d) of this section)" after "shall" in provisions preceding par. (1).
Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 98–369, §2640(b)(1), added par. (1). Former par. (1) redesignated (2).
Subsec. (b)(2). Pub. L. 98–369, §2640(b)(1), (2)(A), redesignated former par. (1) as (2), and inserted "which are in excess of any amount paid to the family under paragraph (1) and". Former par. (2) redesignated (3).
Subsec. (b)(3). Pub. L. 98–369, §2640(b)(1), (2)(B), redesignated former par. (2) as (3), and substituted "paragraph (2)" for "paragraph (1)". Former par. (3) redesignated (4).
Subsec. (b)(4). Pub. L. 98–369, §2640(b)(1), (2)(C), redesignated former par. (3) as (4), and substituted "paragraphs (1), (2), and (3)" for "paragraphs (1) and (2)".
Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 98–378, §7(a)(1), substituted "shall" for "may" in provisions preceding par. (1).
Subsec. (c)(2). Pub. L. 98–378, §7(a)(2), substituted "any amount so collected, which represents monthly support payments, to the family (without requiring any formal reapplication and without the imposition of any application fee) on the same basis as in the case of other individuals who are not receiving assistance under part A of this subchapter," for "the net amount of any amount so collected, which represents monthly support payments, to the family after deducting any costs incurred in making the collection from the amount of any recovery made,".
Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 98–378, §11(a)(1), added subsec. (d).
1981—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 97–35, §2332(e)(1), substituted in provision preceding par. (1) "as support" for "as child support".
Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 97–35, §2332(e)(2), substituted in provision preceding par. (1) "whom support payments" for "whom child support payments" and in pars. (1) and (2) "amounts of support payments" for "amounts of child support payments" in two places and "amounts of support so" for "amounts of child support so".
1977—Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 95–171, §11(a)–(c), in par. (1), substituted "amounts of child support payments which represent monthly support payments" for "such support payments" and inserted ", which represent monthly support payments," after "amounts so collected"; in par. (2), substituted "amounts of child support payments which represent monthly support payments" for "such support payments" and inserted ", which represents monthly support payments," after "amount so collected"; changed to a comma the period at end of par. (2); and inserted provision for distribution of child support proceeds.
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 2006 Amendment
Amendment by section 7301(b)(1)(A), (2), (c) of Pub. L. 109–171 effective Oct. 1, 2009, and applicable to payments under parts A and D of this subchapter for calendar quarters beginning on or after such date, subject to certain State options, see section 7301(e) of Pub. L. 109–171, set out as a note under section 608 of this title.
Pub. L. 109–171, title VII, §7301(b)(1)(B)(ii), Feb. 8, 2006, 120 Stat. 143, provided that: "The amendment made by clause (i) [amending this section] shall take effect on October 1, 2008."
Pub. L. 109–171, title VII, §7301(b)(1)(B)(iii), Feb. 8, 2006, 120 Stat. 143, provided that the amendment made by section 7301(b)(1)(B)(iii) is effective Oct. 1, 2009.
Amendment by section 7310(b) of Pub. L. 109–171 effective Oct. 1, 2006, see section 7310(c) of Pub. L. 109–171, set out as a note under section 654 of this title.
Effective Date of 1999 Amendment
Pub. L. 106–169, title III, §301(b), Dec. 14, 1999, 113 Stat. 1857, provided that: "The amendment made by subsection (a) [amending this section] shall be effective with respect to calendar quarters occurring during the period that begins on October 1, 1998, and ends on September 30, 2001."
Pub. L. 106–169, title III, §301(c), Dec. 14, 1999, 113 Stat. 1857, provided that the amendment made by section 301(c) is effective Oct. 1, 2001.
Amendment by section 401(j), (k) of Pub. L. 106–169 effective as if included in the enactment of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996, Pub. L. 104–193, see section 401(q) of Pub. L. 106–169, set out as a note under section 602 of this title.
Effective Date of 1997 Amendment
Amendment by Pub. L. 105–33 effective as if included in the enactment of title III of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996, Pub. L. 104–193, see section 5557 of Pub. L. 105–33, set out as a note under section 608 of this title.
Effective Date of 1996 Amendment
Pub. L. 104–193, title III, §302(c), Aug. 22, 1996, 110 Stat. 2204, provided that:
"(1) In General.—Except as provided in paragraph (2), the amendments made by this section [amending this section and sections 654 and 664 of this title] shall be effective on October 1, 1996, or earlier at the State's option.
"(2) Conforming amendments.—The amendments made by subsection (b)(2) [amending section 654 of this title] shall become effective on the date of the enactment of this Act [Aug. 22, 1996]."
For provisions relating to effective date of title III of Pub. L. 104–193, see section 395(a)–(c) of Pub. L. 104–193, set out as a note under section 654 of this title.
Effective Date of 1988 Amendment
Pub. L. 100–485, title I, §102(c), Oct. 13, 1988, 102 Stat. 2346, provided that: "The amendments made by this section [amending this section and section 602 of this title] shall become effective on the first day of the first calendar quarter which begins after the date of the enactment of this Act [Oct. 13, 1988]."
Effective Date of 1986 Amendment
Amendment by section 1883(b)(6) of Pub. L. 99–514 effective Oct. 22, 1986, see section 1883(f) of Pub. L. 99–514, set out as a note under section 402 of this title.
Pub. L. 99–514, title XVIII, §1899(b), Oct. 22, 1986, 100 Stat. 2957, provided that: "The amendment made by this section [amending this section] shall become effective on the date of the enactment of this Act [Oct. 22, 1986]."
Effective Date of 1984 Amendment
Pub. L. 98–378, §7(b), Aug. 16, 1984, 98 Stat. 1315, provided that: "The amendments made by subsection (a) [amending this section] shall become effective October 1, 1984."
Amendment by section 11(a) of Pub. L. 98–378 effective Oct. 1, 1984, and applicable to collections made on or after that date, see section 11(e) of Pub. L. 98–378, set out as a note under section 654 of this title.
Pub. L. 98–369, div. B, title VI, §2646, July 18, 1984, 98 Stat. 1147, provided that: "Except as otherwise specifically provided in this subtitle [subtitle B (§§2611–2646) of Pub. L. 98–369], the provisions of parts 1 and 2 [sections 2611 to 2642 of Pub. L. 98–369, enacting section 1320b–6 of this title, amending this section and sections 602, 609, 614, 615, 1320a–6, 1382 to 1382b, 1382j, and 1383 of this title and section 51 of Title 26, Internal Revenue Code, and enacting provisions set out as notes under sections 602, 609, 614, 1320a–6, 1382a, and 1383 of this title and section 51 of Title 26] and the amendments made thereby shall take effect on October 1, 1984."
Effective Date of 1981 Amendment
Amendment by Pub. L. 97–35 effective Oct. 1, 1981, except as otherwise specifically provided, see section 2336 of Pub. L. 97–35, set out as a note under section 651 of this title.
Section, act Aug. 14, 1935, ch. 531, title IV, §458, as added Pub. L. 93–647, §101(a), Jan. 4, 1975, 88 Stat. 2357; amended Pub. L. 95–30, title V, §503(a), May 23, 1977, 91 Stat. 162; Pub. L. 96–272, title III, §307, June 17, 1980, 94 Stat. 531; Pub. L. 97–248, title I, §174(c), Sept. 3, 1982, 96 Stat. 403; Pub. L. 98–378, §5(a), (c)(2)(A), Aug. 16, 1984, 98 Stat. 1312, 1314; Pub. L. 99–514, title XVIII, §1883(b)(7), Oct. 22, 1986, 100 Stat. 2917; Pub. L. 100–485, title I, §127, Oct. 13, 1988, 102 Stat. 2355; Pub. L. 104–193, title III, §§341(a), formerly 341(b), 395(d)(1)(F), Aug. 22, 1996, 110 Stat. 2231, 2259; Pub. L. 105–33, title V, §5550(b), Aug. 5, 1997, 111 Stat. 634; Pub. L. 105–200, title II, §201(e)(1)(A), July 16, 1998, 112 Stat. 657, related to incentive payments to States for child support enforcement programs.
§658a. Incentive payments to States
(a) In general
In addition to any other payment under this part, the Secretary shall, subject to subsection (f), make an incentive payment to each State for each fiscal year in an amount determined under subsection (b).
(b) Amount of incentive payment
(1) In general
The incentive payment for a State for a fiscal year is equal to the incentive payment pool for the fiscal year, multiplied by the State incentive payment share for the fiscal year.
(2) Incentive payment pool
(A) In general
In paragraph (1), the term "incentive payment pool" means—
(i) $422,000,000 for fiscal year 2000;
(ii) $429,000,000 for fiscal year 2001;
(iii) $450,000,000 for fiscal year 2002;
(iv) $461,000,000 for fiscal year 2003;
(v) $454,000,000 for fiscal year 2004;
(vi) $446,000,000 for fiscal year 2005;
(vii) $458,000,000 for fiscal year 2006;
(viii) $471,000,000 for fiscal year 2007;
(ix) $483,000,000 for fiscal year 2008; and
(x) for any succeeding fiscal year, the amount of the incentive payment pool for the fiscal year that precedes such succeeding fiscal year, multiplied by the percentage (if any) by which the CPI for such preceding fiscal year exceeds the CPI for the second preceding fiscal year.
(B) CPI
For purposes of subparagraph (A), the CPI for a fiscal year is the average of the Consumer Price Index for the 12-month period ending on September 30 of the fiscal year. As used in the preceding sentence, the term "Consumer Price Index" means the last Consumer Price Index for all-urban consumers published by the Department of Labor.
(3) State incentive payment share
In paragraph (1), the term "State incentive payment share" means, with respect to a fiscal year—
(A) the incentive base amount for the State for the fiscal year; divided by
(B) the sum of the incentive base amounts for all of the States for the fiscal year.
(4) Incentive base amount
In paragraph (3), the term "incentive base amount" means, with respect to a State and a fiscal year, the sum of the applicable percentages (determined in accordance with paragraph (6)) multiplied by the corresponding maximum incentive base amounts for the State for the fiscal year, with respect to each of the following measures of State performance for the fiscal year:
(A) The paternity establishment performance level.
(B) The support order performance level.
(C) The current payment performance level.
(D) The arrearage payment performance level.
(E) The cost-effectiveness performance level.
(5) Maximum incentive base amount
(A) In general
For purposes of paragraph (4), the maximum incentive base amount for a State for a fiscal year is—
(i) with respect to the performance measures described in subparagraphs (A), (B), and (C) of paragraph (4), the State collections base for the fiscal year; and
(ii) with respect to the performance measures described in subparagraphs (D) and (E) of paragraph (4), 75 percent of the State collections base for the fiscal year.
(B) Data required to be complete and reliable
Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the maximum incentive base amount for a State for a fiscal year with respect to a performance measure described in paragraph (4) is zero, unless the Secretary determines, on the basis of an audit performed under section 652(a)(4)(C)(i) of this title, that the data which the State submitted pursuant to section 654(15)(B) of this title for the fiscal year and which is used to determine the performance level involved is complete and reliable.
(C) State collections base
For purposes of subparagraph (A), the State collections base for a fiscal year is equal to the sum of—
(i) 2 times the sum of—
(I) the total amount of support collected during the fiscal year under the State plan approved under this part in cases in which the support obligation involved is required to be assigned to the State pursuant to part A or E of this subchapter or subchapter XIX; and
(II) the total amount of support collected during the fiscal year under the State plan approved under this part in cases in which the support obligation involved was so assigned but, at the time of collection, is not required to be so assigned; and
(ii) the total amount of support collected during the fiscal year under the State plan approved under this part in all other cases.
(6) Determination of applicable percentages based on performance levels
(A) Paternity establishment
(i) Determination of paternity establishment performance level
The paternity establishment performance level for a State for a fiscal year is, at the option of the State, the IV–D paternity establishment percentage determined under section 652(g)(2)(A) of this title or the statewide paternity establishment percentage determined under section 652(g)(2)(B) of this title.
(ii) Determination of applicable percentage
The applicable percentage with respect to a State's paternity establishment performance level is as follows:
| If the paternity establishment performance level is: | The applicable percentage is: |
|---|
| At least: | But less than: |
|---|
| 80% |
|
100 |
| 79% |
80% |
98 |
| 78% |
79% |
96 |
| 77% |
78% |
94 |
| 76% |
77% |
92 |
| 75% |
76% |
90 |
| 74% |
75% |
88 |
| 73% |
74% |
86 |
| 72% |
73% |
84 |
| 71% |
72% |
82 |
| 70% |
71% |
80 |
| 69% |
70% |
79 |
| 68% |
69% |
78 |
| 67% |
68% |
77 |
| 66% |
67% |
76 |
| 65% |
66% |
75 |
| 64% |
65% |
74 |
| 63% |
64% |
73 |
| 62% |
63% |
72 |
| 61% |
62% |
71 |
| 60% |
61% |
70 |
| 59% |
60% |
69 |
| 58% |
59% |
68 |
| 57% |
58% |
67 |
| 56% |
57% |
66 |
| 55% |
56% |
65 |
| 54% |
55% |
64 |
| 53% |
54% |
63 |
| 52% |
53% |
62 |
| 51% |
52% |
61 |
| 50% |
51% |
60 |
| 0% |
50% |
0. |
Notwithstanding the preceding sentence, if the paternity establishment performance level of a State for a fiscal year is less than 50 percent but exceeds by at least 10 percentage points the paternity establishment performance level of the State for the immediately preceding fiscal year, then the applicable percentage with respect to the State's paternity establishment performance level is 50 percent.
(B) Establishment of child support orders
(i) Determination of support order performance level
The support order performance level for a State for a fiscal year is the percentage of the total number of cases under the State plan approved under this part in which there is a support order during the fiscal year.
(ii) Determination of applicable percentage
The applicable percentage with respect to a State's support order performance level is as follows:
| If the support order performance level is: | The applicable percentage is: |
|---|
| At least: | But less than: |
|---|
| 80% |
|
100 |
| 79% |
80% |
98 |
| 78% |
79% |
96 |
| 77% |
78% |
94 |
| 76% |
77% |
92 |
| 75% |
76% |
90 |
| 74% |
75% |
88 |
| 73% |
74% |
86 |
| 72% |
73% |
84 |
| 71% |
72% |
82 |
| 70% |
71% |
80 |
| 69% |
70% |
79 |
| 68% |
69% |
78 |
| 67% |
68% |
77 |
| 66% |
67% |
76 |
| 65% |
66% |
75 |
| 64% |
65% |
74 |
| 63% |
64% |
73 |
| 62% |
63% |
72 |
| 61% |
62% |
71 |
| 60% |
61% |
70 |
| 59% |
60% |
69 |
| 58% |
59% |
68 |
| 57% |
58% |
67 |
| 56% |
57% |
66 |
| 55% |
56% |
65 |
| 54% |
55% |
64 |
| 53% |
54% |
63 |
| 52% |
53% |
62 |
| 51% |
52% |
61 |
| 50% |
51% |
60 |
| 0% |
50% |
0. |
Notwithstanding the preceding sentence, if the support order performance level of a State for a fiscal year is less than 50 percent but exceeds by at least 5 percentage points the support order performance level of the State for the immediately preceding fiscal year, then the applicable percentage with respect to the State's support order performance level is 50 percent.
(C) Collections on current child support due
(i) Determination of current payment performance level
The current payment performance level for a State for a fiscal year is equal to the total amount of current support collected during the fiscal year under the State plan approved under this part divided by the total amount of current support owed during the fiscal year in all cases under the State plan, expressed as a percentage.
(ii) Determination of applicable percentage
The applicable percentage with respect to a State's current payment performance level is as follows:
| If the current payment performance level is: | The applicable percentage is: |
|---|
| At least: | But less than: |
|---|
| 80% |
|
100 |
| 79% |
80% |
98 |
| 78% |
79% |
96 |
| 77% |
78% |
94 |
| 76% |
77% |
92 |
| 75% |
76% |
90 |
| 74% |
75% |
88 |
| 73% |
74% |
86 |
| 72% |
73% |
84 |
| 71% |
72% |
82 |
| 70% |
71% |
80 |
| 69% |
70% |
79 |
| 68% |
69% |
78 |
| 67% |
68% |
77 |
| 66% |
67% |
76 |
| 65% |
66% |
75 |
| 64% |
65% |
74 |
| 63% |
64% |
73 |
| 62% |
63% |
72 |
| 61% |
62% |
71 |
| 60% |
61% |
70 |
| 59% |
60% |
69 |
| 58% |
59% |
68 |
| 57% |
58% |
67 |
| 56% |
57% |
66 |
| 55% |
56% |
65 |
| 54% |
55% |
64 |
| 53% |
54% |
63 |
| 52% |
53% |
62 |
| 51% |
52% |
61 |
| 50% |
51% |
60 |
| 49% |
50% |
59 |
| 48% |
49% |
58 |
| 47% |
48% |
57 |
| 46% |
47% |
56 |
| 45% |
46% |
55 |
| 44% |
45% |
54 |
| 43% |
44% |
53 |
| 42% |
43% |
52 |
| 41% |
42% |
51 |
| 40% |
41% |
50 |
| 0% |
40% |
0. |
Notwithstanding the preceding sentence, if the current payment performance level of a State for a fiscal year is less than 40 percent but exceeds by at least 5 percentage points the current payment performance level of the State for the immediately preceding fiscal year, then the applicable percentage with respect to the State's current payment performance level is 50 percent.
(D) Collections on child support arrearages
(i) Determination of arrearage payment performance level
The arrearage payment performance level for a State for a fiscal year is equal to the total number of cases under the State plan approved under this part in which payments of past-due child support were received during the fiscal year and part or all of the payments were distributed to the family to whom the past-due child support was owed (or, if all past-due child support owed to the family was, at the time of receipt, subject to an assignment to the State, part or all of the payments were retained by the State) divided by the total number of cases under the State plan in which there is past-due child support, expressed as a percentage.
(ii) Determination of applicable percentage
The applicable percentage with respect to a State's arrearage payment performance level is as follows:
| If the arrearage payment performance level is: | The applicable percentage is: |
|---|
| At least: | But less than: |
|---|
| 80% |
|
100 |
| 79% |
80% |
98 |
| 78% |
79% |
96 |
| 77% |
78% |
94 |
| 76% |
77% |
92 |
| 75% |
76% |
90 |
| 74% |
75% |
88 |
| 73% |
74% |
86 |
| 72% |
73% |
84 |
| 71% |
72% |
82 |
| 70% |
71% |
80 |
| 69% |
70% |
79 |
| 68% |
69% |
78 |
| 67% |
68% |
77 |
| 66% |
67% |
76 |
| 65% |
66% |
75 |
| 64% |
65% |
74 |
| 63% |
64% |
73 |
| 62% |
63% |
72 |
| 61% |
62% |
71 |
| 60% |
61% |
70 |
| 59% |
60% |
69 |
| 58% |
59% |
68 |
| 57% |
58% |
67 |
| 56% |
57% |
66 |
| 55% |
56% |
65 |
| 54% |
55% |
64 |
| 53% |
54% |
63 |
| 52% |
53% |
62 |
| 51% |
52% |
61 |
| 50% |
51% |
60 |
| 49% |
50% |
59 |
| 48% |
49% |
58 |
| 47% |
48% |
57 |
| 46% |
47% |
56 |
| 45% |
46% |
55 |
| 44% |
45% |
54 |
| 43% |
44% |
53 |
| 42% |
43% |
52 |
| 41% |
42% |
51 |
| 40% |
41% |
50 |
| 0% |
40% |
0. |
Notwithstanding the preceding sentence, if the arrearage payment performance level of a State for a fiscal year is less than 40 percent but exceeds by at least 5 percentage points the arrearage payment performance level of the State for the immediately preceding fiscal year, then the applicable percentage with respect to the State's arrearage payment performance level is 50 percent.
(E) Cost-effectiveness
(i) Determination of cost-effectiveness performance level
The cost-effectiveness performance level for a State for a fiscal year is equal to the total amount collected during the fiscal year under the State plan approved under this part divided by the total amount expended during the fiscal year under the State plan, expressed as a ratio.
(ii) Determination of applicable percentage
The applicable percentage with respect to a State's cost-effectiveness performance level is as follows:
| If the cost-effectiveness performance level is: | The applicable percentage is: |
|---|
| At least: | But less than: |
|---|
| 5.00 |
|
100 |
| 4.50 |
4.99 |
90 |
| 4.00 |
4.50 |
80 |
| 3.50 |
4.00 |
70 |
| 3.00 |
3.50 |
60 |
| 2.50 |
3.00 |
50 |
| 2.00 |
2.50 |
40 |
| 0.00 |
2.00 |
0. |
(c) Treatment of interstate collections
In computing incentive payments under this section, support which is collected by a State at the request of another State shall be treated as having been collected in full by both States, and any amounts expended by a State in carrying out a special project assisted under section 655(e) of this title shall be excluded.
(d) Administrative provisions
The amounts of the incentive payments to be made to the States under this section for a fiscal year shall be estimated by the Secretary at/or before the beginning of the fiscal year on the basis of the best information available. The Secretary shall make the payments for the fiscal year, on a quarterly basis (with each quarterly payment being made no later than the beginning of the quarter involved), in the amounts so estimated, reduced or increased to the extent of any overpayments or underpayments which the Secretary determines were made under this section to the States involved for prior periods and with respect to which adjustment has not already been made under this subsection. Upon the making of any estimate by the Secretary under the preceding sentence, any appropriations available for payments under this section are deemed obligated.
(e) Regulations
The Secretary shall prescribe such regulations as may be necessary governing the calculation of incentive payments under this section, including directions for excluding from the calculations certain closed cases and cases over which the States do not have jurisdiction.
(f) Reinvestment
A State to which a payment is made under this section shall expend the full amount of the payment to supplement, and not supplant, other funds used by the State—
(1) to carry out the State plan approved under this part; or
(2) for any activity (including cost-effective contracts with local agencies) approved by the Secretary, whether or not the expenditures for the activity are eligible for reimbursement under this part, which may contribute to improving the effectiveness or efficiency of the State program operated under this part.
(Aug. 14, 1935, ch. 531, title IV, §458, formerly §458A, as added and renumbered §458, Pub. L. 105–200, title II, §201(a), (f)(2)(A), July 16, 1998, 112 Stat. 648, 658.)
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date
Pub. L. 105–200, title II, §201(g), July 16, 1998, 112 Stat. 658, provided that: "Except as otherwise provided in this section [enacting this section, amending this section and sections 652, 655, and 658 of this title, repealing section 658 of this title, enacting provisions set out as notes under this section and sections 652 and 655 of this title, amending provisions set out as notes under this section and sections 652 and 658 of this title, and repealing provisions set out as a note under section 658 of this title], the amendments made by this section shall take effect on October 1, 1999."
Regulations
Pub. L. 105–200, title II, §201(c), July 16, 1998, 112 Stat. 656, provided that: "Within 9 months after the date of the enactment of this section [July 16, 1998], the Secretary of Health and Human Services shall prescribe regulations governing the implementation of section 458A [now 458] of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 658a] when such section takes effect and the implementation of subsection (b) of this section [formerly set out as a note below]."
Transition Rule
Pub. L. 105–200, title II, §201(b), July 16, 1998, 112 Stat. 656, provided for reductions by the Secretary of the amount otherwise payable to a State under this section and former section 658 of this title for fiscal years 2000 and 2001.
Studies
Pub. L. 105–200, title II, §201(d), (f)(2)(C), July 16, 1998, 112 Stat. 656, 658, provided that:
"(1) General review of new incentive payment system.—
"(A) In general.—The Secretary of Health and Human Services shall conduct a study of the implementation of the incentive payment system established by section 458 of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 658a], in order to identify the problems and successes of the system.
"(B) Reports to the congress.—
"(i) Report on variations in state performance attributable to demographic variables.—Not later than October 1, 2000, the Secretary shall submit to the Congress a report that identifies any demographic or economic variables that account for differences in the performance levels achieved by the States with respect to the performance measures used in the system, and contains the recommendations of the Secretary for such adjustments to the system as may be necessary to ensure that the relative performance of States is measured from a baseline that takes account of any such variables.
"(ii) Interim report.—Not later than March 1, 2001, the Secretary shall submit to the Congress an interim report that contains the findings of the study required by subparagraph (A).
"(iii) Final report.—Not later than October 1, 2003, the Secretary shall submit to the Congress a final report that contains the final findings of the study required by subparagraph (A). The report shall include any recommendations for changes in the system that the Secretary determines would improve the operation of the child support enforcement program.
"(2) Development of medical support incentive.—
"(A) In general.—The Secretary of Health and Human Services, in consultation with State directors of programs operated under part D of title IV of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 651 et seq.] and representatives of children potentially eligible for medical support, shall develop a performance measure based on the effectiveness of States in establishing and enforcing medical support obligations, and shall make recommendations for the incorporation of the measure, in a revenue neutral manner, into the incentive payment system established by section 458A [now 458] of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 658a].
"(B) Report.—Not later than October 1, 1999, the Secretary shall submit to the Congress a report that describes the performance measure and contains the recommendations required by subparagraph (A)."
§659. Consent by United States to income withholding, garnishment, and similar proceedings for enforcement of child support and alimony obligations
(a) Consent to support enforcement
Notwithstanding any other provision of law (including section 407 of this title and section 5301 of title 38), effective January 1, 1975, moneys (the entitlement to which is based upon remuneration for employment) due from, or payable by, the United States or the District of Columbia (including any agency, subdivision, or instrumentality thereof) to any individual, including members of the Armed Forces of the United States, shall be subject, in like manner and to the same extent as if the United States or the District of Columbia were a private person, to withholding in accordance with State law enacted pursuant to subsections (a)(1) and (b) of section 666 of this title and regulations of the Secretary under such subsections, and to any other legal process brought, by a State agency administering a program under a State plan approved under this part or by an individual obligee, to enforce the legal obligation of the individual to provide child support or alimony.
(b) Consent to requirements applicable to private person
With respect to notice to withhold income pursuant to subsection (a)(1) or (b) of section 666 of this title, or any other order or process to enforce support obligations against an individual (if the order or process contains or is accompanied by sufficient data to permit prompt identification of the individual and the moneys involved), each governmental entity specified in subsection (a) shall be subject to the same requirements as would apply if the entity were a private person, except as otherwise provided in this section.
(c) Designation of agent; response to notice or process
(1) Designation of agent
The head of each agency subject to this section shall—
(A) designate an agent or agents to receive orders and accept service of process in matters relating to child support or alimony; and
(B) annually publish in the Federal Register the designation of the agent or agents, identified by title or position, mailing address, and telephone number.
(2) Response to notice or process
If an agent designated pursuant to paragraph (1) of this subsection receives notice pursuant to State procedures in effect pursuant to subsection (a)(1) or (b) of section 666 of this title, or is effectively served with any order, process, or interrogatory, with respect to an individual's child support or alimony payment obligations, the agent shall—
(A) as soon as possible (but not later than 15 days) thereafter, send written notice of the notice or service (together with a copy of the notice or service) to the individual at the duty station or last-known home address of the individual;
(B) within 30 days (or such longer period as may be prescribed by applicable State law) after receipt of a notice pursuant to such State procedures, comply with all applicable provisions of section 666 of this title; and
(C) within 30 days (or such longer period as may be prescribed by applicable State law) after effective service of any other such order, process, or interrogatory, withhold available sums in response to the order or process, or answer the interrogatory.
(d) Priority of claims
If a governmental entity specified in subsection (a) receives notice or is served with process, as provided in this section, concerning amounts owed by an individual to more than 1 person—
(1) support collection under section 666(b) of this title must be given priority over any other process, as provided in section 666(b)(7) of this title;
(2) allocation of moneys due or payable to an individual among claimants under section 666(b) of this title shall be governed by section 666(b) of this title and the regulations prescribed under such section; and
(3) such moneys as remain after compliance with paragraphs (1) and (2) shall be available to satisfy any other such processes on a first-come, first-served basis, with any such process being satisfied out of such moneys as remain after the satisfaction of all such processes which have been previously served.
(e) No requirement to vary pay cycles
A governmental entity that is affected by legal process served for the enforcement of an individual's child support or alimony payment obligations shall not be required to vary its normal pay and disbursement cycle in order to comply with the legal process.
(f) Relief from liability
(1) Neither the United States, nor the government of the District of Columbia, nor any disbursing officer shall be liable with respect to any payment made from moneys due or payable from the United States to any individual pursuant to legal process regular on its face, if the payment is made in accordance with this section and the regulations issued to carry out this section.
(2) No Federal employee whose duties include taking actions necessary to comply with the requirements of subsection (a) with regard to any individual shall be subject under any law to any disciplinary action or civil or criminal liability or penalty for, or on account of, any disclosure of information made by the employee in connection with the carrying out of such actions.
(g) Regulations
Authority to promulgate regulations for the implementation of this section shall, insofar as this section applies to moneys due from (or payable by)—
(1) the United States (other than the legislative or judicial branches of the Federal Government) or the government of the District of Columbia, be vested in the President (or the designee of the President);
(2) the legislative branch of the Federal Government, be vested jointly in the President pro tempore of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives (or their designees),1 and
(3) the judicial branch of the Federal Government, be vested in the Chief Justice of the United States (or the designee of the Chief Justice).
(h) Moneys subject to process
(1) In general
Subject to paragraph (2), moneys payable to an individual which are considered to be based upon remuneration for employment, for purposes of this section—
(A) consist of—
(i) compensation payable for personal services of the individual, whether the compensation is denominated as wages, salary, commission, bonus, pay, allowances, or otherwise (including severance pay, sick pay, and incentive pay);
(ii) periodic benefits (including a periodic benefit as defined in section 428(h)(3) of this title) or other payments—
(I) under the insurance system established by subchapter II;
(II) under any other system or fund established by the United States which provides for the payment of pensions, retirement or retired pay, annuities, dependents' or survivors' benefits, or similar amounts payable on account of personal services performed by the individual or any other individual;
(III) as compensation for death under any Federal program;
(IV) under any Federal program established to provide "black lung" benefits; or
(V) by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs as compensation for a service-connected disability paid by the Secretary to a former member of the Armed Forces who is in receipt of retired or retainer pay if the former member has waived a portion of the retired or retainer pay in order to receive such compensation;
(iii) worker's compensation benefits paid or payable under Federal or State law;
(iv) benefits paid or payable under the Railroad Retirement System,1 and
(v) special benefits for certain World War II veterans payable under subchapter VIII; but
(B) do not include any payment—
(i) by way of reimbursement or otherwise, to defray expenses incurred by the individual in carrying out duties associated with the employment of the individual;
(ii) as allowances for members of the uniformed services payable pursuant to chapter 7 of title 37, as prescribed by the Secretaries concerned (defined by section 101(5) of title 37) as necessary for the efficient performance of duty; or
(iii) of periodic benefits under title 38, except as provided in subparagraph (A)(ii)(V).
(2) Certain amounts excluded
In determining the amount of any moneys due from, or payable by, the United States to any individual, there shall be excluded amounts which—
(A) are owed by the individual to the United States;
(B) are required by law to be, and are, deducted from the remuneration or other payment involved, including Federal employment taxes, and fines and forfeitures ordered by court-martial;
(C) are properly withheld for Federal, State, or local income tax purposes, if the withholding of the amounts is authorized or required by law and if amounts withheld are not greater than would be the case if the individual claimed all dependents to which he was entitled (the withholding of additional amounts pursuant to section 3402(i) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 may be permitted only when the individual presents evidence of a tax obligation which supports the additional withholding);
(D) are deducted as health insurance premiums;
(E) are deducted as normal retirement contributions (not including amounts deducted for supplementary coverage); or
(F) are deducted as normal life insurance premiums from salary or other remuneration for employment (not including amounts deducted for supplementary coverage).
(i) Definitions
For purposes of this section—
(1) United States
The term "United States" includes any department, agency, or instrumentality of the legislative, judicial, or executive branch of the Federal Government, the United States Postal Service, the Postal Regulatory Commission, any Federal corporation created by an Act of Congress that is wholly owned by the Federal Government, and the governments of the territories and possessions of the United States.
(2) Child support
The term "child support", when used in reference to the legal obligations of an individual to provide such support, means amounts required to be paid under a judgment, decree, or order, whether temporary, final, or subject to modification, issued by a court or an administrative agency of competent jurisdiction, for the support and maintenance of a child, including a child who has attained the age of majority under the law of the issuing State, or a child and the parent with whom the child is living, which provides for monetary support, health care, arrearages or reimbursement, and which may include other related costs and fees, interest and penalties, income withholding, attorney's fees, and other relief.
(3) Alimony
(A) In general
The term "alimony", when used in reference to the legal obligations of an individual to provide the same, means periodic payments of funds for the support and maintenance of the spouse (or former spouse) of the individual, and (subject to and in accordance with State law) includes separate maintenance, alimony pendente lite, maintenance, and spousal support, and includes attorney's fees, interest, and court costs when and to the extent that the same are expressly made recoverable as such pursuant to a decree, order, or judgment issued in accordance with applicable State law by a court of competent jurisdiction.
(B) Exceptions
Such term does not include—
(i) any child support; or
(ii) any payment or transfer of property or its value by an individual to the spouse or a former spouse of the individual in compliance with any community property settlement, equitable distribution of property, or other division of property between spouses or former spouses.
(4) Private person
The term "private person" means a person who does not have sovereign or other special immunity or privilege which causes the person not to be subject to legal process.
(5) Legal process
The term "legal process" means any writ, order, summons, or other similar process in the nature of garnishment—
(A) which is issued by—
(i) a court or an administrative agency of competent jurisdiction in any State, territory, or possession of the United States;
(ii) a court or an administrative agency of competent jurisdiction in any foreign country with which the United States has entered into an agreement which requires the United States to honor the process; or
(iii) an authorized official pursuant to an order of such a court or an administrative agency of competent jurisdiction or pursuant to State or local law; and
(B) which is directed to, and the purpose of which is to compel, a governmental entity which holds moneys which are otherwise payable to an individual to make a payment from the moneys to another party in order to satisfy a legal obligation of the individual to provide child support or make alimony payments.
(Aug. 14, 1935, ch. 531, title IV, §459, as added Pub. L. 93–647, §101(a), Jan. 4, 1975, 88 Stat. 2357; amended Pub. L. 95–30, title V, §501(a), (b), May 23, 1977, 91 Stat. 157; Pub. L. 98–21, title III, §335(b)(1), Apr. 20, 1983, 97 Stat. 130; Pub. L. 104–193, title III, §362(a), Aug. 22, 1996, 110 Stat. 2242; Pub. L. 105–33, title V, §5542(a), (b), Aug. 5, 1997, 111 Stat. 631; Pub. L. 106–169, title II, §251(b)(3), Dec. 14, 1999, 113 Stat. 1855; Pub. L. 109–435, title VI, §604(f), Dec. 20, 2006, 120 Stat. 3242.)
Editorial Notes
References in Text
The Internal Revenue Code of 1986, referred to in subsec. (h)(2)(C), is classified generally to Title 26, Internal Revenue Code.
Amendments
2006—Subsec. (i)(1). Pub. L. 109–435 substituted "Postal Regulatory Commission" for "Postal Rate Commission".
1999—Subsec. (h)(1)(A)(v). Pub. L. 106–169 added cl. (v).
1997—Subsec. (c)(2)(C). Pub. L. 105–33, §5542(a), substituted "withhold available sums in response to the order or process, or answer the interrogatory" for "respond to the order, process, or interrogatory".
Subsec. (h)(1). Pub. L. 105–33, §5542(b)(1), struck out "paid or" after "moneys" in introductory provisions.
Subsec. (h)(1)(A)(i). Pub. L. 105–33, §5542(b)(1), struck out "paid or" before "payable".
Subsec. (h)(1)(A)(iii). Pub. L. 105–33, §5542(b)(2)(B)(i), inserted "or payable" after "paid".
Subsec. (h)(1)(A)(iv). Pub. L. 105–33, §5542(b)(2)(A), (B)(ii), (C), added cl. (iv).
Subsec. (h)(1)(B)(iii). Pub. L. 105–33, §5542(b)(3), added cl. (iii).
1996—Pub. L. 104–193 amended section catchline and text generally. Prior to amendment, text consisted of subsecs. (a) to (f) relating to use of legal process to collect money payable to an individual as remuneration for employment by the United States or the District of Columbia for purpose of enforcing individual's legal obligation to provide child support or make alimony payments.
1983—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 98–21 inserted reference to section 407 of this title.
1977—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 95–30, §501(a), (b)(1), designated existing provisions as subsec. (a) and substituted "or the District of Columbia (including any agency, subdivision, or instrumentality thereof)" for "(including any agency or instrumentality thereof and any wholly owned Federal Corporation)" and "as if the United States or the District of Columbia were a private person" for "as if the United States were a private person".
Subsecs. (b) to (f). Pub. L. 95–30, §501(b)(2), added subsecs. (b) to (f).
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 1997 Amendment
Amendment by Pub. L. 105–33 effective as if included in the enactment of title III of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996, Pub. L. 104–193, see section 5557 of Pub. L. 105–33, set out as a note under section 608 of this title.
Effective Date of 1996 Amendment
Pub. L. 104–193, title III, §362(d), Aug. 22, 1996, 110 Stat. 2247, provided that: "The amendments made by this section [amending this section, section 5520a of Title 5, Government Organization and Employees, and section 1408 of Title 10, Armed Forces, and repealing sections 661 and 662 of this title] shall become effective 6 months after the date of the enactment of this Act [Aug. 22, 1996]."
For provisions relating to effective date of title III of Pub. L. 104–193, see section 395(a)–(c) of Pub. L. 104–193, set out as a note under section 654 of this title.
Executive Documents
Executive Order No. 11881
Ex. Ord. No. 11881, Oct. 3, 1975, 40 F.R. 46291, which related to the delegation of authority to issue regulations for the implementation of the provisions of this section, was revoked by Ex. Ord. No. 12105, Dec. 19, 1978, 43 F.R. 59465, set out as a note below.
Ex. Ord. No. 12105. Delegation of Authority To Promulgate Regulations
Ex. Ord. No. 12105, Dec. 19, 1978, 43 F.R. 59465, as amended by Ex. Ord. No. 12107, Dec. 28, 1978, 44 F.R. 1055, provided:
By virtue of the authority vested in me by Section 461(a)(1) of the Social Security Act, as added by Section 501(c) of the Tax Reduction and Simplification Act of 1977 (Public Law 95–30, 91 Stat. 158, 42 U.S.C. 661(a)(1)), and Section 301 of Title 3 of the United States Code, and as President of the United States of America, in order to provide for the enforcement of legal obligations to provide child support or make alimony payments incurred by employees of the Executive branch, it is hereby ordered as follows:
1–1. Delegation of Authority
1–101. The Office of Personnel Management, in consultation with the Attorney General, the Secretary of Defense with respect to members of the armed forces, and the Mayor of the District of Columbia with respect to employees of the Government thereof, is authorized to promulgate regulations for the uniform implementation of Section 459 of the Social Security Act, as amended (42 U.S.C. 659), hereinafter referred to as the Act.
1–102. The regulations promulgated by the Office of Personnel Management pursuant to this Order shall:
(a) Be applicable to the Executive branch of the Government as defined in Section 461(a)(1) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 661(a)(1)).
(b) Require the appropriate officials of the Executive branch of the Government to take the actions prescribed by Sections 461(b)(1), 461(b)(3)(A) and 461(c) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 661(b)(1), 661(b)(3)(A) and 661(c)).
(c) Require the appropriate officials of the Executive branch of the Government to issue such rules, regulations and directives as are necessary to implement the regulations of the Office of Personnel Management.
1–2. Revocations
1–201. Executive Order No. 11881 of October 3, 1975 is revoked.
1–202. All regulations, directives, or actions taken by the Office of Personnel Management pursuant to Executive Order No. 11881 of October 3, 1975 shall remain in effect until modified, superseded or revoked by the Office of Personnel Management pursuant to this Order.
Jimmy Carter.
Ex. Ord. No. 12953. Actions Required of all Executive Agencies To Facilitate Payment of Child Support
Ex. Ord. No. 12953, Feb. 27, 1995, 60 F.R. 11013, provided:
Children need and deserve the emotional and financial support of both their parents.
The Federal Government requires States and, through them, public and private employers to take actions necessary to ensure that monies in payment of child support obligations are withheld and transferred to the child's caretaker in an efficient and expeditious manner.
The Federal Government, through its civilian employees and Uniformed Services members, is the Nation's largest single employer and as such should set an example of leadership and encouragement in ensuring that all children are properly supported.
NOW, THEREFORE, by the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including section 301 of title 3, United States Code, it is hereby ordered as follows:
PART I—PURPOSE
Section 101. This executive order: (a) Establishes the executive branch of the Federal Government, through its civilian employees and Uniformed Services members, as a model employer in promoting and facilitating the establishment and enforcement of child support.
(b) Requires all Federal agencies, including the Uniformed Services, to cooperate fully in efforts to establish paternity and child support orders and to enforce the collection of child and medical support in all situations where such actions may be required.
(c) Requires each Federal agency, including the Uniformed Services, to provide information to its employees and members about actions that they should take and services that are available to ensure that their children are provided the support to which they are legally entitled.
PART 2—DEFINITIONS
For purposes of this order:
Sec. 201. "Federal agency" means any authority as defined at 5 U.S.C. 105, including the Uniformed Services, as defined in section 202 of this order.
Sec. 202. "Uniformed Services" means the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Coast Guard, and the Commissioned Corps of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and the Public Health Service.
Sec. 203. "Child support enforcement" means any administrative or judicial action by a court or administrative entity of a State necessary to establish paternity or establish a child support order, including a medical support order, and any actions necessary to enforce a child support or medical support order. Child support actions may be brought under the civil or criminal laws of a State and are not limited to actions brought on behalf of the State or individual by State agencies providing services under title IV-D of the Social Security Act, 42 U.S.C. 651 et seq.
Sec. 204. "State" means any of the fifty States, the District of Columbia, the territories, the possessions, and the Commonwealths of Puerto Rico and of the Mariana Islands.
PART 3—IMMEDIATE ACTIONS TO ENSURE CHILDREN ARE SUPPORTED BY THEIR PARENTS
Sec. 301. Wage Withholding. (a) Within 60 days from the date of this order, every Federal agency shall review its procedures for wage withholding under 42 U.S.C. 659 and implementing regulations to ensure that it is in full compliance with the requirements of that section, and shall endeavor, to the extent feasible, to process wage withholding actions consistent with the requirements of 42 U.S.C. 666(b).
(b) Beginning no later than July 1, 1995, the Director of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) shall publish annually in the Federal Register the list of agents (and their addresses) designated to receive service of withholding notices for Federal employees.
Sec. 302. Service of Legal Process. Every Federal agency shall assist in the service of legal process in civil actions pursuant to orders of courts of States to establish paternity and establish or enforce a support obligation by making Federal employees and members of the Uniformed Services stationed outside the United States available for the service of process. Each agency shall designate an official who shall be responsible for facilitating a Federal employee's or member's availability for service of process, regardless of the location of the employee's workplace or member's duty station. The OPM shall publish a list of these officials annually in the Federal Register, beginning no later than July 1, 1995.
Sec. 303. Federal Parent Locator. Every Federal agency shall cooperate with the Federal Parent Locator Service, established under 42 U.S.C. 653, by providing complete, timely and accurate information that will assist in locating noncustodial parents and their employers.
Sec. 304. Crossmatch for Delinquent Obligors. (a) The master file of delinquent obligors that each State child support enforcement agency submits to the Internal Revenue Service for Federal income tax refund offset purposes shall be matched at least annually with the payroll or personnel files of Federal agencies in order to determine if there are any Federal employees with child support delinquencies. The list of matches shall be forwarded to the appropriate State child support enforcement agency to determine, in each instance, whether wage withholding or other enforcement actions should be commenced. All matches will be performed in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552a(o)–(u).
(b) All Federal agencies shall inform current and prospective employees that crossmatches are routinely made between Federal personnel records and State records on individuals who owe child support, and inform employees how to initiate voluntary wage withholding requests.
Sec. 305. Availability of Service. All Federal agencies shall advise current and prospective employees of services authorized under title IV-D of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 651 et seq.] that are available through the States. At a minimum, information shall be provided annually to current employees through the Employee Assistance Program, or similar programs, and to new employees during routine orientation.
Sec. 306. Report on Actions Taken. Within 90 days of the date of this order, all Federal agencies shall report to the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) on the actions they have taken to comply with this order and any statutory, regulatory, and administrative barriers that hinder them from complying with the requirements of part 3 of this order.
PART 4—ADDITIONAL ACTIONS
Sec. 401. Additional Review for the Uniformed Services. (a) In addition to the requirements outlined above, the Secretary of the Department of Defense (DOD) will chair a task force, with participation by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the Department of Commerce, and the Department of Transportation, that shall conduct a full review of current policies and practices within the Uniformed Services to ensure that children of Uniformed Services personnel are provided financial and medical support in the same manner and within the same time frames as is mandated for all other children due such support. This review shall include, but not be limited to, issues related to withholding non-custodial parents' wages, service of legal process, activities to locate parents and their income and assets, release time to attend civil paternity and support proceedings, and health insurance coverage under the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Uniformed Services (CHAMPUS). All relevant existing statutes, including the Soldiers['] and Sailors['] Civil Relief Act of 1940 [now Servicemembers Civil Relief Act] [50 U.S.C. 3901 et seq.], the Uniformed Services Former Spouses['] Protection Act [see Short Title of 1982 Amendment note set out under section 1401 of Title 10, Armed Forces], and the Tax Equity and Fiscal Responsibility Act of 1982 [Pub. L. 97–248, see Tables for classification], shall be reviewed and appropriate legislative modifications shall be identified.
(b) Within 180 days of the date of this order, DOD shall submit to OMB a report based on this review. The report shall recommend additional policy, regulatory and legislative changes that would improve and enhance the Federal Government's commitment to ensuring parental support for all children.
Sec. 402. Additional Federal Agency Actions. (a) OPM and HHS shall jointly study and prepare recommendations concerning additional administrative, regulatory, and legislative improvements in the policies and procedures of Federal agencies affecting child support enforcement. Other agencies shall be included in the development of recommendations for specific items as appropriate. The recommendations shall address, among other things:
(i) any changes that would be needed to ensure that Federal employees comply with child support orders that require them to provide health insurance coverage for their children;
(ii) changes needed to ensure that more accurate and up-to-date data about civilian and uniformed personnel who are being sought in conjunction with State paternity or child support actions can be obtained from Federal agencies and their payroll and personnel records, to improve efforts to locate noncustodial parents and their income and assets;
(iii) changes needed for selecting Federal agencies to test and evaluate new approaches to the establishment and enforcement of child support obligations;
(iv) proposals to improve service of process for civilian employees and members of the Uniformed Services stationed outside the United States, including the possibility of serving process by certified mail in establishment and enforcement cases or of designating an agent for service of process that would have the same effect and bind employees to the same extent as actual service upon the employees;
(v) strategies to facilitate compliance with Federal and State child support requirements by quasi-governmental agencies, advisory groups, and commissions; and
(vi) analysis of whether compliance with support orders should be a factor used in defining suitability for Federal employment.
(b) The recommendations are due within 180 days of the date of this order. The recommendations are to be submitted in writing to the Office of Management and Budget.
Sec. 501. Internal Management. This order is intended only to improve the internal management of the executive branch with regard to child support enforcement and shall not be interpreted to create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law by a party against the United States, its officers, or any other person.
Sec. 502. Sovereignty of the United States Government. This order is intended only to provide that the Federal Government has elected to require Federal agencies to adhere to the same standards as are applicable to all other employers in the Nation and shall not be interpreted as subjecting the Federal Government to any State law or requirement. This order should not be construed as a waiver of the sovereign immunity of the United States Government or of any existing statutory or regulatory provisions, including 42 U.S.C. 659, 662, and 665; 5 CFR Part 581; 42 CFR Part 21, Subpart C; 32 CFR Part 54; and 32 CFR Part 81.
Sec. 503. Defense and Security.
This order is not intended to require any action that would compromise the defense or national security interest of the United States.
William J. Clinton.
§659a. International support enforcement
(a) Authority for declarations
(1) Declaration
The Secretary of State, with the concurrence of the Secretary of Health and Human Services, is authorized to declare any foreign country (or a political subdivision thereof) to be a foreign reciprocating country if the foreign country has established, or undertakes to establish, procedures for the establishment and enforcement of duties of support owed to obligees who are residents of the United States, and such procedures are substantially in conformity with the standards prescribed under subsection (b).
(2) Revocation
A declaration with respect to a foreign country made pursuant to paragraph (1) may be revoked if the Secretaries of State and Health and Human Services determine that—
(A) the procedures established by the foreign country regarding the establishment and enforcement of duties of support have been so changed, or the foreign country's implementation of such procedures is so unsatisfactory, that such procedures do not meet the criteria for such a declaration; or
(B) continued operation of the declaration is not consistent with the purposes of this part.
(3) Form of declaration
A declaration under paragraph (1) may be made in the form of an international agreement, in connection with an international agreement or corresponding foreign declaration, or on a unilateral basis.
(b) Standards for foreign support enforcement procedures
(1) Mandatory elements
Support enforcement procedures of a foreign country which may be the subject of a declaration pursuant to subsection (a)(1) shall include the following elements:
(A) The foreign country (or political subdivision thereof) has in effect procedures, available to residents of the United States—
(i) for establishment of paternity, and for establishment of orders of support for children and custodial parents; and
(ii) for enforcement of orders to provide support to children and custodial parents, including procedures for collection and appropriate distribution of support payments under such orders.
(B) The procedures described in subparagraph (A), including legal and administrative assistance, are provided to residents of the United States at no cost.
(C) An agency of the foreign country is designated as a Central Authority responsible for—
(i) facilitating support enforcement in cases involving residents of the foreign country and residents of the United States; and
(ii) ensuring compliance with the standards established pursuant to this subsection.
(2) Additional elements
The Secretary of Health and Human Services and the Secretary of State, in consultation with the States, may establish such additional standards as may be considered necessary to further the purposes of this section.
(c) Designation of United States Central Authority
It shall be the responsibility of the Secretary of Health and Human Services to facilitate support enforcement in cases involving residents of the United States and residents of foreign reciprocating countries or foreign treaty countries, by activities including—
(1) development of uniform forms and procedures for use in such cases;
(2) notification of foreign reciprocating countries and foreign treaty countries of the State of residence of individuals sought for support enforcement purposes, on the basis of information provided by the Federal Parent Locator Service; and
(3) such other oversight, assistance, and coordination activities as the Secretary may find necessary and appropriate.
(d) Effect on other laws
States may enter into reciprocal arrangements for the establishment and enforcement of support obligations with foreign countries that are not foreign reciprocating countries or foreign treaty countries, to the extent consistent with Federal law.
(e) References
In this part:
(1) Foreign reciprocating country
The term "foreign reciprocating country" means a foreign country (or political subdivision thereof) with respect to which the Secretary has made a declaration pursuant to subsection (a).
(2) Foreign treaty country
The term "foreign treaty country" means a foreign country for which the 2007 Family Maintenance Convention is in force.
(3) 2007 Family Maintenance Convention
The term "2007 Family Maintenance Convention" means the Hague Convention of 23 November 2007 on the International Recovery of Child Support and Other Forms of Family Maintenance.
(Aug. 14, 1935, ch. 531, title IV, §459A, as added Pub. L. 104–193, title III, §371(a), Aug. 22, 1996, 110 Stat. 2252; amended Pub. L. 113–183, title III, §301(d), Sept. 29, 2014, 128 Stat. 1944.)
Editorial Notes
Amendments
2014—Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 113–183, §301(d)(2)(A), substituted "foreign reciprocating countries or foreign treaty countries" for "foreign countries that are the subject of a declaration under this section" in introductory provisions.
Subsec. (c)(2). Pub. L. 113–183, §301(d)(2)(B), inserted "and foreign treaty countries" after "foreign reciprocating countries".
Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 113–183, §301(d)(3), substituted "foreign reciprocating countries or foreign treaty countries" for "the subject of a declaration pursuant to subsection (a)".
Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 113–183, §301(d)(1), added subsec. (e).
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date
For effective date of section, see section 395(a)–(c) of Pub. L. 104–193, set out as an Effective Date of 1996 Amendment note under section 654 of this title.
Executive Documents
Ex. Ord. No. 13752. Relating to the Implementation of the Convention on the International Recovery of Child Support and Other Forms of Family Maintenance
Ex. Ord. No. 13752, Dec. 8, 2016, 81 F.R. 90181, provided:
The United States of America deposited its instrument of ratification of the Hague Convention on the International Recovery of Child Support and Other Forms of Family Maintenance (Convention) on September 7, 2016. The Convention will enter into force for the United States on January 1, 2017. Article 4 of the Convention imposes upon States Parties an obligation to designate a "Central Authority" for the purpose of discharging certain specified functions.
NOW, THEREFORE, by virtue of the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is ordered as follows:
Section 1. Designation of Central Authority. The Department of Health and Human Services is hereby designated as the Central Authority of the United States for purposes of the Convention. The Secretary of Health and Human Services is hereby authorized and empowered, in accordance with such regulations as the Secretary may prescribe, to perform all lawful acts that may be necessary and proper in order to execute the functions of the Central Authority in a timely and efficient manner.
Sec. 2. Designation of State IV–D Child Support Agencies. The Central Authority may designate the State agencies responsible for implementing an approved State Plan under title IV–D of the Social Security Act, 42 U.S.C. 651 et seq., as public bodies authorized to perform specific functions in relation to applications under the Convention.
Sec. 3. General Provisions. (a) Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:
(i) the authority granted by law to an executive department, agency, or the head thereof, or the status of that department or agency within the Federal Government; or
(ii) the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.
(b) This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.
(c) This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
Barack Obama.
§660. Civil action to enforce child support obligations; jurisdiction of district courts
The district courts of the United States shall have jurisdiction, without regard to any amount in controversy, to hear and determine any civil action certified by the Secretary of Health and Human Services under section 652(a)(8) of this title. A civil action under this section may be brought in any judicial district in which the claim arose, the plaintiff resides, or the defendant resides.
(Aug. 14, 1935, ch. 531, title IV, §460, as added Pub. L. 93–647, §101(a), Jan. 4, 1975, 88 Stat. 2358; amended Pub. L. 98–369, div. B, title VI, §2663(j)(2)(B)(xi), July 18, 1984, 98 Stat. 1170.)
Editorial Notes
Amendments
1984—Pub. L. 98–369 substituted "Health and Human Services" for "Health, Education, and Welfare".
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 1984 Amendment
Amendment by Pub. L. 98–369 effective July 18, 1984, but not to be construed as changing or affecting any right, liability, status, or interpretation which existed (under the provisions of law involved) before that date, see section 2664(b) of Pub. L. 98–369, set out as a note under section 401 of this title.
Section 661, act Aug. 14, 1935, ch. 531, title IV, §461, as added May 23, 1977, Pub. L. 95–30, title V, §501(c), 91 Stat. 158, related to regulations pertaining to garnishments.
Section 662, act Aug. 14, 1935, ch. 531, title IV, §462, as added May 23, 1977, Pub. L. 95–30, title V, §501(d), 91 Stat. 159; amended July 18, 1984, Pub. L. 98–369, div. B, title VI, §2663(c)(17), 98 Stat. 1167; Oct. 22, 1986, Pub. L. 99–514, §2, 100 Stat. 2095; June 13, 1991, Pub. L. 102–54, §13(q)(3)(B)(ii), 105 Stat. 279, related to definitions for purposes of section 659 of this title.
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of Repeal
Repeal effective 6 months after Aug. 22, 1996, see section 362(d) of Pub. L. 104–193, set out as an Effective Date of 1996 Amendment note under section 659 of this title.
For provisions relating to effective date of title III of Pub. L. 104–193, see section 395(a)–(c) of Pub. L. 104–193, set out as an Effective Date of 1996 Amendment note under section 654 of this title.
§663. Use of Federal Parent Locator Service in connection with enforcement or determination of child custody in cases of parental kidnaping of child
(a) Agreements with States for use of Federal Parent Locator Service
The Secretary shall enter into an agreement with every State under which the services of the Federal Parent Locator Service established under section 653 of this title shall be made available to each State for the purpose of determining the whereabouts of any parent or child when such information is to be used to locate such parent or child for the purpose of—
(1) enforcing any State or Federal law with respect to the unlawful taking or restraint of a child; or
(2) making or enforcing a child custody or visitation determination.
(b) Requests from authorized persons for information
An agreement entered into under subsection (a) shall provide that the State agency described in section 654 of this title will, under procedures prescribed by the Secretary in regulations, receive and transmit to the Secretary requests from authorized persons for information as to (or useful in determining) the whereabouts of any parent or child when such information is to be used to locate such parent or child for the purpose of—
(1) enforcing any State or Federal law with respect to the unlawful taking or restraint of a child; or
(2) making or enforcing a child custody or visitation determination.
(c) Information which may be disclosed
Information authorized to be provided by the Secretary under subsection (a), (b), (e), or (f) shall be subject to the same conditions with respect to disclosure as information authorized to be provided under section 653 of this title, and a request for information by the Secretary under this section shall be considered to be a request for information under section 653 of this title which is authorized to be provided under such section. Only information as to the most recent address and place of employment of any parent or child shall be provided under this section.
(d) "Custody or visitation determination" and "authorized person" defined
For purposes of this section—
(1) the term "custody or visitation determination" means a judgment, decree, or other order of a court providing for the custody or visitation of a child, and includes permanent and temporary orders, and initial orders and modification;
(2) the term "authorized person" means—
(A) any agent or attorney of any State having an agreement under this section, who has the duty or authority under the law of such State to enforce a child custody or visitation determination;
(B) any court having jurisdiction to make or enforce such a child custody or visitation determination, or any agent of such court; and
(C) any agent or attorney of the United States, or of a State having an agreement under this section, who has the duty or authority to investigate, enforce, or bring a prosecution with respect to the unlawful taking or restraint of a child.
(e) Agreement on use of Federal Parent Locator Service with United States Central Authority under Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction
The Secretary shall enter into an agreement with the Central Authority designated by the President in accordance with section 9006 of title 22, under which the services of the Federal Parent Locator Service established under section 653 of this title shall be made available to such Central Authority upon its request for the purpose of locating any parent or child on behalf of an applicant to such Central Authority within the meaning of section 9002(1) of title 22. The Federal Parent Locator Service shall charge no fees for services requested pursuant to this subsection.
(f) Agreement to assist in locating missing children under Federal Parent Locator Service
The Secretary shall enter into an agreement with the Attorney General of the United States, under which the services of the Federal Parent Locator Service established under section 653 of this title shall be made available to the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention upon its request to locate any parent or child on behalf of such Office for the purpose of—
(1) enforcing any State or Federal law with respect to the unlawful taking or restraint of a child, or
(2) making or enforcing a child custody or visitation determination.
The Federal Parent Locator Service shall charge no fees for services requested pursuant to this subsection.
(Aug. 14, 1935, ch. 531, title IV, §463, as added Pub. L. 96–611, §9(b), Dec. 28, 1980, 94 Stat. 3572; amended Pub. L. 100–300, §11, Apr. 29, 1988, 102 Stat. 441; Pub. L. 103–432, title II, §214(a), (b), Oct. 31, 1994, 108 Stat. 4461; Pub. L. 104–193, title III, §§316(e)(1), 395(d)(1)(G), Aug. 22, 1996, 110 Stat. 2215, 2259; Pub. L. 105–33, title V, §5534(b), Aug. 5, 1997, 111 Stat. 629.)
Editorial Notes
Amendments
1997—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 105–33, §5534(b)(1)(A), (5), in introductory provisions, substituted "every State" for "any State which is able and willing to do so," and "each State" for "such State" and struck out "noncustodial" before "parent".
Subsec. (a)(2). Pub. L. 105–33, §5534(b)(1)(B), inserted "or visitation" after "custody".
Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 105–33, §5534(b)(5), struck out "noncustodial" before "parent or child when" in introductory provisions.
Subsec. (b)(2). Pub. L. 105–33, §5534(b)(2), inserted "or visitation" after "custody".
Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 105–33, §5534(b)(5), struck out "noncustodial" before "parent".
Subsec. (d)(1). Pub. L. 105–33, §5534(b)(3)(A), inserted "or visitation" before "determination".
Subsec. (d)(2)(A), (B). Pub. L. 105–33, §5534(b)(3)(B), inserted "or visitation" after "custody".
Subsec. (f)(2). Pub. L. 105–33, §5534(b)(4), inserted "or visitation" after "custody".
1996—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 104–193, §§316(e)(1), 395(d)(1)(G), inserted "Federal" before "Parent Locator Service" and substituted "noncustodial parent" for "absent parent".
Subsecs. (b), (c). Pub. L. 104–193, §395(d)(1)(G), substituted "noncustodial parent" for "absent parent".
Subsecs. (e), (f). Pub. L. 104–193, §316(e)(1), inserted "Federal" before "Parent Locator Service" wherever appearing.
1994—Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 103–432, §214(b), substituted "subsection (a), (b), (e), or (f)" for "subsection (a), (b), or (e)".
Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 103–432, §214(a), added subsec. (f).
1988—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 100–300, §11(1), substituted "under subsection (a)" for "under this section".
Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 100–300, §11(2), substituted "under subsection (a), (b), or (e)" for "under this section".
Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 100–300, §11(3), added subsec. (e).
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 1997 Amendment
Amendment by Pub. L. 105–33 effective as if included in the enactment of title III of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996, Pub. L. 104–193, see section 5557 of Pub. L. 105–33, set out as a note under section 608 of this title.
Effective Date of 1996 Amendment
For effective date of amendment by Pub. L. 104–193, see section 395(a)–(c) of Pub. L. 104–193, set out as a note under section 654 of this title.
Effective Date of 1994 Amendment
Pub. L. 103–432, title II, §214(c), Oct. 31, 1994, 108 Stat. 4461, provided that: "The amendments made by this section [amending this section] shall take effect on October 1, 1995."
Effective Date
Pub. L. 96–611, §9(d), Dec. 28, 1980, 94 Stat. 3573, provided that: "No agreement entered into under section 463 of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 663] shall become effective before the date on which section 1738A of title 28, United States Code (as added by this title [probably should be "as added by section 8(a) of this Act"]) becomes effective."
§664. Collection of past-due support from Federal tax refunds
(a) Procedures applicable; distribution
(1) Upon receiving notice from a State agency administering a plan approved under this part that a named individual owes past-due support which has been assigned to such State pursuant to section 608(a)(3) or section 671(a)(17) of this title, the Secretary of the Treasury shall determine whether any amounts, as refunds of Federal taxes paid, are payable to such individual (regardless of whether such individual filed a tax return as a married or unmarried individual). If the Secretary of the Treasury finds that any such amount is payable, he shall withhold from such refunds an amount equal to the past-due support, shall concurrently send notice to such individual that the withholding has been made (including in or with such notice a notification to any other person who may have filed a joint return with such individual of the steps which such other person may take in order to secure his or her proper share of the refund), and shall pay such amount to the State agency (together with notice of the individual's home address) for distribution in accordance with section 657 of this title. This subsection may be executed by the disbursing official of the Department of the Treasury.
(2)(A) Upon receiving notice from a State agency administering a plan approved under this part that a named individual owes past-due support which such State has agreed to collect under paragraph (4)(A)(ii) or (32) of section 654 of this title, and that the State agency has sent notice to such individual in accordance with paragraph (3)(A), the Secretary of the Treasury shall determine whether any amounts, as refunds of Federal taxes paid, are payable to such individual (regardless of whether such individual filed a tax return as a married or unmarried individual). If the Secretary of the Treasury finds that any such amount is payable, he shall withhold from such refunds an amount equal to such past-due support, and shall concurrently send notice to such individual that the withholding has been made, including in or with such notice a notification to any other person who may have filed a joint return with such individual of the steps which such other person may take in order to secure his or her proper share of the refund. The Secretary of the Treasury shall pay the amount withheld to the State agency, and the State shall pay to the Secretary of the Treasury any fee imposed by the Secretary of the Treasury to cover the costs of the withholding and any required notification. The State agency shall, subject to paragraph (3)(B), distribute such amount to or on behalf of the child to whom the support was owed in accordance with section 657 of this title. This subsection may be executed by the Secretary of the Department of the Treasury or his designee.
(B) This paragraph shall apply only with respect to refunds payable under section 6402 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 after December 31, 1985.
(3)(A) Prior to notifying the Secretary of the Treasury under paragraph (1) or (2) that an individual owes past-due support, the State shall send notice to such individual that a withholding will be made from any refund otherwise payable to such individual. The notice shall also (i) instruct the individual owing the past-due support of the steps which may be taken to contest the State's determination that past-due support is owed or the amount of the past-due support, and (ii) provide information, as may be prescribed by the Secretary of Health and Human Services by regulation in consultation with the Secretary of the Treasury, with respect to procedures to be followed, in the case of a joint return, to protect the share of the refund which may be payable to another person.
(B) If the Secretary of the Treasury determines that an amount should be withheld under paragraph (1) or (2), and that the refund from which it should be withheld is based upon a joint return, the Secretary of the Treasury shall notify the State that the withholding is being made from a refund based upon a joint return, and shall furnish to the State the names and addresses of each taxpayer filing such joint return. In the case of a withholding under paragraph (2), the State may delay distribution of the amount withheld until the State has been notified by the Secretary of the Treasury that the other person filing the joint return has received his or her proper share of the refund, but such delay may not exceed six months.
(C) If the other person filing the joint return with the named individual owing the past-due support takes appropriate action to secure his or her proper share of a refund from which a withholding was made under paragraph (1) or (2), the Secretary of the Treasury shall pay such share to such other person. The Secretary of the Treasury shall deduct the amount of such payment from amounts subsequently payable to the State agency to which the amount originally withheld from such refund was paid.
(D) In any case in which an amount was withheld under paragraph (1) or (2) and paid to a State, and the State subsequently determines that the amount certified as past-due support was in excess of the amount actually owed at the time the amount withheld is to be distributed to or on behalf of the child, the State shall pay the excess amount withheld to the named individual thought to have owed the past-due support (or, in the case of amounts withheld on the basis of a joint return, jointly to the parties filing such return).
(b) Regulations; contents, etc.
(1) The Secretary of the Treasury shall issue regulations, approved by the Secretary of Health and Human Services, prescribing the time or times at which States must submit notices of past-due support, the manner in which such notices must be submitted, and the necessary information that must be contained in or accompany the notices. The regulations shall be consistent with the provisions of subsection (a)(3), shall specify the minimum amount of past-due support to which the offset procedure established by subsection (a) may be applied, and the fee that a State must pay to reimburse the Secretary of the Treasury for the full cost of applying the offset procedure, and shall provide that the Secretary of the Treasury will advise the Secretary of Health and Human Services, not less frequently than annually, of the States which have furnished notices of past-due support under subsection (a), the number of cases in each State with respect to which such notices have been furnished, the amount of support sought to be collected under this subsection by each State, and the amount of such collections actually made in the case of each State. Any fee paid to the Secretary of the Treasury pursuant to this subsection may be used to reimburse appropriations which bore all or part of the cost of applying such procedure.
(2) In the case of withholdings made under subsection (a)(2), the regulations promulgated pursuant to this subsection shall include the following requirements:
(A) The withholding shall apply only in the case where the State determines that the amount of the past-due support which will be owed at the time the withholding is to be made, based upon the pattern of payment of support and other enforcement actions being pursued to collect the past-due support, is equal to or greater than $500. The State may limit the $500 threshold amount to amounts of past-due support accrued since the time that the State first began to enforce the child support order involved under the State plan, and may limit the application of the withholding to past-due support accrued since such time.
(B) The fee which the Secretary of the Treasury may impose to cover the costs of the withholding and notification may not exceed $25 per case submitted.
(c) "Past-due support" defined
In this part the term "past-due support" means the amount of a delinquency, determined under a court order, or an order of an administrative process established under State law, for support and maintenance of a child (whether or not a minor), or of a child (whether or not a minor) and the parent with whom the child is living.
(Aug. 14, 1935, ch. 531, title IV, §464, as added Pub. L. 97–35, title XXIII, §2331(a), Aug. 13, 1981, 95 Stat. 860; amended Pub. L. 98–378, §§11(d), 21(a)–(c), Aug. 16, 1984, 98 Stat. 1318, 1322-1324; Pub. L. 99–514, §2, title XVIII, §1883(b)(8), Oct. 22, 1986, 100 Stat. 2095, 2917; Pub. L. 101–508, title V, §5011(a), (b), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1388–220; Pub. L. 104–134, title III, §31001(v)(2), Apr. 26, 1996, 110 Stat. 1321–375; Pub. L. 104–193, title III, §302(b)(1), Aug. 22, 1996, 110 Stat. 2204; Pub. L. 105–33, title V, §§5513(a)(4), 5531(b), 5532(i)(1), Aug. 5, 1997, 111 Stat. 620, 626, 627; Pub. L. 109–171, title VII, §7301(f)(1), Feb. 8, 2006, 120 Stat. 144; Pub. L. 113–183, title III, §301(e), Sept. 29, 2014, 128 Stat. 1944.)
Editorial Notes
References in Text
The Internal Revenue Code of 1986, referred to in subsec. (a)(2)(B), is classified generally to Title 26, Internal Revenue Code.
Amendments
2014—Subsec. (a)(2)(A). Pub. L. 113–183 substituted "under paragraph (4)(A)(ii) or (32) of section 654" for "under section 654(4)(A)(ii)".
2006—Subsec. (a)(2)(A). Pub. L. 109–171, §7301(f)(1)(A), struck out "(as that term is defined for purposes of this paragraph under subsection (c) of this section)" after "owes past-due support".
Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 109–171, §7301(f)(1)(B), substituted "In this part" for "(1) Except as provided in paragraph (2), as used in this part", inserted "(whether or not a minor)" after "a child" in two places, and struck out pars. (2) and (3) defining "past-due support" and "qualified child", respectively.
1997—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 105–33, §5513(a)(4), substituted "section 608(a)(3)" for "section 602(a)(26)".
Subsec. (a)(2)(A). Pub. L. 105–33, §5531(b), substituted "section 654(4)(A)(ii)" for "section 654(6)" in first sentence.
Pub. L. 105–33, §5532(i)(1), inserted "in accordance with section 657 of this title" after "owed" in penultimate sentence.
1996—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 104–134, §31001(v)(2)(1), inserted at end "This subsection may be executed by the disbursing official of the Department of the Treasury."
Pub. L. 104–193 substituted "section 657" for "section 657(b)(4) or (d)(3)".
Subsec. (a)(2)(A). Pub. L. 104–134, §31001(v)(2)(2), inserted at end "This subsection may be executed by the Secretary of the Department of the Treasury or his designee."
1990—Subsec. (a)(2)(B). Pub. L. 101–508, §5011(a), struck out ", and before January 1, 1991" after "1985".
Subsec. (c)(2). Pub. L. 101–508, §5011(b)(1), substituted "qualified child (or a qualified child and the parent with whom the child is living if the same support order includes support for the child and the parent)" for "minor child".
Subsec. (c)(3). Pub. L. 101–508, §5011(b)(2), added par. (3).
1986—Subsec. (a)(2)(B). Pub. L. 99–514, §2, substituted "Internal Revenue Code of 1986" for "Internal Revenue Code of 1954".
Subsec. (b)(2)(A). Pub. L. 99–514, §1883(b)(8), substituted "threshold" for "threshhold".
1984—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 98–378, §21(a), (b)(1), designated existing provisions as par. (1), substituted "shall concurrently send notice to such individual that the withholding has been made (including in or with such notice a notification to any other person who may have filed a joint return with such individual of the steps which such other person may take in order to secure his or her proper share of the refund), and shall pay" for "and pay", and added pars. (2) and (3).
Pub. L. 98–378, §11(d), inserted "or section 671(a)(17)" and substituted "section 657(b)(4) or (d)(3)" for "section 657(b)(3)".
Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 98–378, §21(b)(2), designated existing provisions as par. (1), substituted "The regulations shall be consistent with the provisions of subsection (a)(3), shall specify" for "The regulations shall specify", substituted "and shall provide" for "and provide", inserted provision that any fee paid to the Secretary of the Treasury pursuant to subsec. (b) may be used to reimburse appropriations which bore all or part of the cost of applying such procedure, and added par. (2).
Subsec. (c)(1). Pub. L. 98–378, §21(c), designated existing provisions as par. (1), inserted reference to par. (2), and added par. (2).
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 2006 Amendment
Pub. L. 109–171, title VII, §7301(f)(2), Feb. 8, 2006, 120 Stat. 145, provided that: "The amendments made by paragraph (1) [amending this section] shall take effect on October 1, 2007."
Effective Date of 1997 Amendment
Amendment by section 5513(a)(4) of Pub. L. 105–33 effective as if included in section 108 of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996, Pub. L. 104–193, at the time such section 108 became law, see section 5518(b) of Pub. L. 105–33, set out as a note under section 652 of this title.
Amendment by sections 5531(b) and 5532(i)(1) of Pub. L. 105–33 effective as if included in the enactment of title III of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996, Pub. L. 104–193, see section 5557 of Pub. L. 105–33, set out as a note under section 608 of this title.
Effective Date of 1996 Amendment
Amendment by Pub. L. 104–193 effective Oct. 1, 1996, or earlier at the State's option, see section 302(c) of Pub. L. 104–193, set out as a note under section 657 of this title.
For provisions relating to effective date of title III of Pub. L. 104–193, see section 395(a)–(c) of Pub. L. 104–193, set out as a note under section 654 of this title.
Effective Date of 1990 Amendment
Pub. L. 101–508, title V, §5011(c), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1388–220, provided that: "The amendments made by subsection (b) [amending this section] shall take effect on January 1, 1991."
Effective Date of 1984 Amendment
Amendment by section 11(d) of Pub. L. 98–378 effective Oct. 1, 1984, and applicable to collections made on or after that date, see section 11(e) of Pub. L. 98–378, set out as a note under section 654 of this title.
Amendment by section 21(a)–(c) of Pub. L. 98–378 applicable with respect to refunds payable under section 6402 of Title 26, Internal Revenue Code, after Dec. 31, 1985, see section 21(g) of Pub. L. 98–378, set out as a note under section 6103 of Title 26.
Effective Date
Section effective Oct. 1, 1981, except as otherwise specifically provided, see section 2336 of Pub. L. 97–35, set out as an Effective Date of 1981 Amendment note under section 651 of this title.
§665. Allotments from pay for child and spousal support owed by members of uniformed services on active duty
(a) Mandatory allotment; notice upon failure to make; amount of allotment; adjustment or discontinuance; consultation
(1) In any case in which child support payments or child and spousal support payments are owed by a member of one of the uniformed services (as defined in section 101(3) of title 37) on active duty, such member shall be required to make allotments from his pay and allowances (under chapter 13 of title 37) as payment of such support, when he has failed to make periodic payments under a support order that meets the criteria specified in section 1673(b)(1)(A) of title 15 and the resulting delinquency in such payments is in a total amount equal to the support payable for two months or longer. Failure to make such payments shall be established by notice from an authorized person (as defined in subsection (b)) to the designated official in the appropriate uniformed service. Such notice (which shall in turn be given to the affected member) shall also specify the person to whom the allotment is to be payable. The amount of the allotment shall be the amount necessary to comply with the order (which, if the order so provides, may include arrearages as well as amounts for current support), except that the amount of the allotment, together with any other amounts withheld for support from the wages of the member, as a percentage of his pay from the uniformed service, shall not exceed the limits prescribed in sections 1 1673(b) and (c) of title 15. An allotment under this subsection shall be adjusted or discontinued upon notice from the authorized person.
(2) Notwithstanding the preceding provisions of this subsection, no action shall be taken to require an allotment from the pay and allowances of any member of one of the uniformed services under such provisions (A) until such member has had a consultation with a judge advocate of the service involved (as defined in section 801(13) of title 10), or with a judge advocate (as defined in section 801(11) 2 of such title) in the case of the Coast Guard, or with a legal officer designated by the Secretary concerned (as defined in section 101(5) of title 37) in any other case, in person, to discuss the legal and other factors involved with respect to the member's support obligation and his failure to make payments thereon, or (B) until 30 days have elapsed after the notice described in the second sentence of paragraph (1) is given to the affected member in any case where it has not been possible, despite continuing good faith efforts, to arrange such a consultation.
(b) "Authorized person" defined
For purposes of this section the term "authorized person" with respect to any member of the uniformed services means—
(1) any agent or attorney of a State having in effect a plan approved under this part who has the duty or authority under such plan to seek to recover any amounts owed by such member as child or child and spousal support (including, when authorized under the State plan, any official of a political subdivision); and
(2) the court which has authority to issue an order against such member for the support and maintenance of a child, or any agent of such court.
(c) Regulations
The Secretary of Defense, in the case of the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps, and the Secretary concerned (as defined in section 101(5) of title 37) in the case of each of the other uniformed services, shall each issue regulations applicable to allotments to be made under this section, designating the officials to whom notice of failure to make support payments, or notice to discontinue or adjust an allotment, should be given, prescribing the form and content of the notice and specifying any other rules necessary for such Secretary to implement this section.
(Aug. 14, 1935, ch. 531, title IV, §465, as added Pub. L. 97–248, title I, §172(a), Sept. 3, 1982, 96 Stat. 401; amended Pub. L. 109–241, title II, §218(b)(2), July 11, 2006, 120 Stat. 526.)
Editorial Notes
References in Text
Section 801(11) of title 10, referred to in subsec. (a)(2), was repealed by Pub. L. 109–241, title II, §218(a)(1), July 11, 2006, 120 Stat. 526. However, "judge advocate" is defined elsewhere in that section.
Amendments
2006—Subsec. (a)(2). Pub. L. 109–241 substituted "judge advocate" for "law specialist".
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date
Pub. L. 97–248, title I, §172(b), Sept. 3, 1982, 96 Stat. 403, provided that: "The amendment made by subsection (a) [enacting this section] shall become effective on October 1, 1982."
Transfer of Functions
For transfer of authorities, functions, personnel, and assets of the Coast Guard, including the authorities and functions of the Secretary of Transportation relating thereto, to the Department of Homeland Security, and for treatment of related references, see sections 468(b), 551(d), 552(d), and 557 of Title 6, Domestic Security, and the Department of Homeland Security Reorganization Plan of November 25, 2002, as modified, set out as a note under section 542 of Title 6.
§666. Requirement of statutorily prescribed procedures to improve effectiveness of child support enforcement
(a) Types of procedures required
In order to satisfy section 654(20)(A) of this title, each State must have in effect laws requiring the use of the following procedures, consistent with this section and with regulations of the Secretary, to increase the effectiveness of the program which the State administers under this part:
(1)(A) Procedures described in subsection (b) for the withholding from income of amounts payable as support in cases subject to enforcement under the State plan.
(B) Procedures under which the income of a person with a support obligation imposed by a support order issued (or modified) in the State before January 1, 1994, if not otherwise subject to withholding under subsection (b), shall become subject to withholding as provided in subsection (b) if arrearages occur, without the need for a judicial or administrative hearing.
(2) Expedited administrative and judicial procedures (including the procedures specified in subsection (c)) for establishing paternity and for establishing, modifying, and enforcing support obligations. The Secretary may waive the provisions of this paragraph with respect to one or more political subdivisions within the State on the basis of the effectiveness and timeliness of support order issuance and enforcement or paternity establishment within the political subdivision (in accordance with the general rule for exemptions under subsection (d)).
(3) Procedures under which the State child support enforcement agency shall request, and the State shall provide, that for the purpose of enforcing a support order under any State plan approved under this part—
(A) any refund of State income tax which would otherwise be payable to a noncustodial parent will be reduced, after notice has been sent to that noncustodial parent of the proposed reduction and the procedures to be followed to contest it (and after full compliance with all procedural due process requirements of the State), by the amount of any overdue support owed by such noncustodial parent;
(B) the amount by which such refund is reduced shall be distributed in accordance with section 657 of this title in the case of overdue support assigned to a State pursuant to section 608(a)(3) or 671(a)(17) of this title, or, in any other case, shall be distributed, after deduction of any fees imposed by the State to cover the costs of collection, to the child or parent to whom such support is owed; and
(C) notice of the noncustodial parent's social security account number (or numbers, if he has more than one such number) and home address shall be furnished to the State agency requesting the refund offset, and to the State agency enforcing the order.
(4) Liens.—Procedures under which—
(A) liens arise by operation of law against real and personal property for amounts of overdue support owed by a noncustodial parent who resides or owns property in the State; and
(B) the State accords full faith and credit to liens described in subparagraph (A) arising in another State, when the State agency, party, or other entity seeking to enforce such a lien complies with the procedural rules relating to recording or serving liens that arise within the State, except that such rules may not require judicial notice or hearing prior to the enforcement of such a lien.
(5) Procedures concerning paternity establishment.—
(A) Establishment process available from birth until age 18.—
(i) Procedures which permit the establishment of the paternity of a child at any time before the child attains 18 years of age.
(ii) As of August 16, 1984, clause (i) shall also apply to a child for whom paternity has not been established or for whom a paternity action was brought but dismissed because a statute of limitations of less than 18 years was then in effect in the State.
(B) Procedures concerning genetic testing.—
(i) Genetic testing required in certain contested cases.—Procedures under which the State is required, in a contested paternity case (unless otherwise barred by State law) to require the child and all other parties (other than individuals found under section 654(29) of this title to have good cause and other exceptions for refusing to cooperate) to submit to genetic tests upon the request of any such party, if the request is supported by a sworn statement by the party—
(I) alleging paternity, and setting forth facts establishing a reasonable possibility of the requisite sexual contact between the parties; or
(II) denying paternity, and setting forth facts establishing a reasonable possibility of the nonexistence of sexual contact between the parties.
(ii) Other requirements.—Procedures which require the State agency, in any case in which the agency orders genetic testing—
(I) to pay costs of such tests, subject to recoupment (if the State so elects) from the alleged father if paternity is established; and
(II) to obtain additional testing in any case if an original test result is contested, upon request and advance payment by the contestant.
(C) Voluntary paternity acknowledgment.—
(i) Simple civil process.—Procedures for a simple civil process for voluntarily acknowledging paternity under which the State must provide that, before a mother and a putative father can sign an acknowledgment of paternity, the mother and the putative father must be given notice, orally, or through the use of video or audio equipment, and in writing, of the alternatives to, the legal consequences of, and the rights (including, if 1 parent is a minor, any rights afforded due to minority status) and responsibilities that arise from, signing the acknowledgment.
(ii) Hospital-based program.—Such procedures must include a hospital-based program for the voluntary acknowledgment of paternity focusing on the period immediately before or after the birth of a child.
(iii) Paternity establishment services.—
(I) State-offered services.—Such procedures must require the State agency responsible for maintaining birth records to offer voluntary paternity establishment services.
(II) Regulations.—
(aa) Services offered by hospitals and birth record agencies.—The Secretary shall prescribe regulations governing voluntary paternity establishment services offered by hospitals and birth record agencies.
(bb) Services offered by other entities.—The Secretary shall prescribe regulations specifying the types of other entities that may offer voluntary paternity establishment services, and governing the provision of such services, which shall include a requirement that such an entity must use the same notice provisions used by, use the same materials used by, provide the personnel providing such services with the same training provided by, and evaluate the provision of such services in the same manner as the provision of such services is evaluated by, voluntary paternity establishment programs of hospitals and birth record agencies.
(iv) Use of paternity acknowledgment affidavit.—Such procedures must require the State to develop and use an affidavit for the voluntary acknowledgment of paternity which includes the minimum requirements of the affidavit specified by the Secretary under section 652(a)(7) of this title for the voluntary acknowledgment of paternity, and to give full faith and credit to such an affidavit signed in any other State according to its procedures.
(D) Status of signed paternity acknowledgment.—
(i) Inclusion in birth records.—Procedures under which the name of the father shall be included on the record of birth of the child of unmarried parents only if—
(I) the father and mother have signed a voluntary acknowledgment of paternity; or
(II) a court or an administrative agency of competent jurisdiction has issued an adjudication of paternity.
Nothing in this clause shall preclude a State agency from obtaining an admission of paternity from the father for submission in a judicial or administrative proceeding, or prohibit the issuance of an order in a judicial or administrative proceeding which bases a legal finding of paternity on an admission of paternity by the father and any other additional showing required by State law.
(ii) Legal finding of paternity.—Procedures under which a signed voluntary acknowledgment of paternity is considered a legal finding of paternity, subject to the right of any signatory to rescind the acknowledgment within the earlier of—
(I) 60 days; or
(II) the date of an administrative or judicial proceeding relating to the child (including a proceeding to establish a support order) in which the signatory is a party.
(iii) Contest.—Procedures under which, after the 60-day period referred to in clause (ii), a signed voluntary acknowledgment of paternity may be challenged in court only on the basis of fraud, duress, or material mistake of fact, with the burden of proof upon the challenger, and under which the legal responsibilities (including child support obligations) of any signatory arising from the acknowledgment may not be suspended during the challenge, except for good cause shown.
(E) Bar on acknowledgment ratification proceedings.—Procedures under which judicial or administrative proceedings are not required or permitted to ratify an unchallenged acknowledgment of paternity.
(F) Admissibility of genetic testing results.—Procedures—
(i) requiring the admission into evidence, for purposes of establishing paternity, of the results of any genetic test that is—
(I) of a type generally acknowledged as reliable by accreditation bodies designated by the Secretary; and
(II) performed by a laboratory approved by such an accreditation body;
(ii) requiring an objection to genetic testing results to be made in writing not later than a specified number of days before any hearing at which the results may be introduced into evidence (or, at State option, not later than a specified number of days after receipt of the results); and
(iii) making the test results admissible as evidence of paternity without the need for foundation testimony or other proof of authenticity or accuracy, unless objection is made.
(G) Presumption of paternity in certain cases.—Procedures which create a rebuttable or, at the option of the State, conclusive presumption of paternity upon genetic testing results indicating a threshold probability that the alleged father is the father of the child.
(H) Default orders.—Procedures requiring a default order to be entered in a paternity case upon a showing of service of process on the defendant and any additional showing required by State law.
(I) No right to jury trial.—Procedures providing that the parties to an action to establish paternity are not entitled to a trial by jury.
(J) Temporary support order based on probable paternity in contested cases.—Procedures which require that a temporary order be issued, upon motion by a party, requiring the provision of child support pending an administrative or judicial determination of parentage, if there is clear and convincing evidence of paternity (on the basis of genetic tests or other evidence).
(K) Proof of certain support and paternity establishment costs.—Procedures under which bills for pregnancy, childbirth, and genetic testing are admissible as evidence without requiring third-party foundation testimony, and shall constitute prima facie evidence of amounts incurred for such services or for testing on behalf of the child.
(L) Standing of putative fathers.—Procedures ensuring that the putative father has a reasonable opportunity to initiate a paternity action.
(M) Filing of acknowledgments and adjudications in state registry of birth records.—Procedures under which voluntary acknowledgments and adjudications of paternity by judicial or administrative processes are filed with the State registry of birth records for comparison with information in the State case registry.
(6) Procedures which require that a noncustodial parent give security, post a bond, or give some other guarantee to secure payment of overdue support, after notice has been sent to such noncustodial parent of the proposed action and of the procedures to be followed to contest it (and after full compliance with all procedural due process requirements of the State).
(7) Reporting arrearages to credit bureaus.—
(A) In general.—Procedures (subject to safeguards pursuant to subparagraph (B)) requiring the State to report periodically to consumer reporting agencies (as defined in section 1681a(f) of title 15) the name of any noncustodial parent who is delinquent in the payment of support, and the amount of overdue support owed by such parent.
(B) Safeguards.—Procedures ensuring that, in carrying out subparagraph (A), information with respect to a noncustodial parent is reported—
(i) only after such parent has been afforded all due process required under State law, including notice and a reasonable opportunity to contest the accuracy of such information; and
(ii) only to an entity that has furnished evidence satisfactory to the State that the entity is a consumer reporting agency (as so defined).
(8)(A) Procedures under which all child support orders not described in subparagraph (B) will include provision for withholding from income, in order to assure that withholding as a means of collecting child support is available if arrearages occur without the necessity of filing application for services under this part.
(B) Procedures under which all child support orders which are initially issued in the State on or after January 1, 1994, and are not being enforced under this part will include the following requirements:
(i) The income of a noncustodial parent shall be subject to withholding, regardless of whether support payments by such parent are in arrears, on the effective date of the order; except that such income shall not be subject to withholding under this clause in any case where (I) one of the parties demonstrates, and the court (or administrative process) finds, that there is good cause not to require immediate income withholding, or (II) a written agreement is reached between both parties which provides for an alternative arrangement.
(ii) The requirements of subsection (b)(1) (which shall apply in the case of each noncustodial parent against whom a support order is or has been issued or modified in the State, without regard to whether the order is being enforced under the State plan).
(iii) The requirements of paragraphs (2), (5), (6), (7), (8), (9), and (10) of subsection (b), where applicable.
(iv) Withholding from income of amounts payable as support must be carried out in full compliance with all procedural due process requirements of the State.
(9) Procedures which require that any payment or installment of support under any child support order, whether ordered through the State judicial system or through the expedited processes required by paragraph (2), is (on and after the date it is due)—
(A) a judgment by operation of law, with the full force, effect, and attributes of a judgment of the State, including the ability to be enforced,
(B) entitled as a judgment to full faith and credit in such State and in any other State, and
(C) not subject to retroactive modification by such State or by any other State;
except that such procedures may permit modification with respect to any period during which there is pending a petition for modification, but only from the date that notice of such petition has been given, either directly or through the appropriate agent, to the obligee or (where the obligee is the petitioner) to the obligor.
(10) Review and adjustment of support orders upon request.—
(A) 3-year cycle.—
(i) In general.—Procedures under which every 3 years (or such shorter cycle as the State may determine), upon the request of either parent or if there is an assignment under part A, the State shall with respect to a support order being enforced under this part, taking into account the best interests of the child involved—
(I) review and, if appropriate, adjust the order in accordance with the guidelines established pursuant to section 667(a) of this title if the amount of the child support award under the order differs from the amount that would be awarded in accordance with the guidelines;
(II) apply a cost-of-living adjustment to the order in accordance with a formula developed by the State; or
(III) use automated methods (including automated comparisons with wage or State income tax data) to identify orders eligible for review, conduct the review, identify orders eligible for adjustment, and apply the appropriate adjustment to the orders eligible for adjustment under any threshold that may be established by the State.
(ii) Opportunity to request review of adjustment.—If the State elects to conduct the review under subclause (II) or (III) of clause (i), procedures which permit either party to contest the adjustment, within 30 days after the date of the notice of the adjustment, by making a request for review and, if appropriate, adjustment of the order in accordance with the child support guidelines established pursuant to section 667(a) of this title.
(iii) No proof of change in circumstances necessary in 3-year cycle review.—Procedures which provide that any adjustment under clause (i) shall be made without a requirement for proof or showing of a change in circumstances.
(B) Proof of substantial change in circumstances necessary in request for review outside 3-year cycle.—Procedures under which, in the case of a request for a review, and if appropriate, an adjustment outside the 3-year cycle (or such shorter cycle as the State may determine) under clause (i), the State shall review and, if the requesting party demonstrates a substantial change in circumstances, adjust the order in accordance with the guidelines established pursuant to section 667(a) of this title.
(C) Notice of right to review.—Procedures which require the State to provide notice not less than once every 3 years to the parents subject to the order informing the parents of their right to request the State to review and, if appropriate, adjust the order pursuant to this paragraph. The notice may be included in the order.
(11) Procedures under which a State must give full faith and credit to a determination of paternity made by any other State, whether established through voluntary acknowledgment or through administrative or judicial processes.
(12) Locator information from interstate networks.—Procedures to ensure that all Federal and State agencies conducting activities under this part have access to any system used by the State to locate an individual for purposes relating to motor vehicles or law enforcement.
(13) Recording of social security numbers in certain family matters.—Procedures requiring that the social security number of—
(A) any applicant for a professional license, driver's license, occupational license, recreational license, or marriage license be recorded on the application;
(B) any individual who is subject to a divorce decree, support order, or paternity determination or acknowledgment be placed in the records relating to the matter; and
(C) any individual who has died be placed in the records relating to the death and be recorded on the death certificate.
For purposes of subparagraph (A), if a State allows the use of a number other than the social security number to be used on the face of the document while the social security number is kept on file at the agency, the State shall so advise any applicants.
(14) High-volume, automated administrative enforcement in interstate cases.—
(A) In general.—Procedures under which—
(i) the State shall use high-volume automated administrative enforcement, to the same extent as used for intrastate cases, in response to a request made by another State to enforce support orders, and shall promptly report the results of such enforcement procedure to the requesting State;
(ii) the State may, by electronic or other means, transmit to another State a request for assistance in enforcing support orders through high-volume, automated administrative enforcement, which request—
(I) shall include such information as will enable the State to which the request is transmitted to compare the information about the cases to the information in the data bases of the State; and
(II) shall constitute a certification by the requesting State—
(aa) of the amount of support under an order the payment of which is in arrears; and
(bb) that the requesting State has complied with all procedural due process requirements applicable to each case;
(iii) if the State provides assistance to another State pursuant to this paragraph with respect to a case, neither State shall consider the case to be transferred to the caseload of such other State (but the assisting State may establish a corresponding case based on such other State's request for assistance); and
(iv) the State shall maintain records of—
(I) the number of such requests for assistance received by the State;
(II) the number of cases for which the State collected support in response to such a request; and
(III) the amount of such collected support.
(B) High-volume automated administrative enforcement.—In this part, the term "high-volume automated administrative enforcement", in interstate cases, means, on request of another State, the identification by a State, through automated data matches with financial institutions and other entities where assets may be found, of assets owned by persons who owe child support in other States, and the seizure of such assets by the State, through levy or other appropriate processes.
(15) Procedures to ensure that persons owing overdue support work or have a plan for payment of such support.—Procedures under which the State has the authority, in any case in which an individual owes overdue support with respect to a child receiving assistance under a State program funded under part A, to issue an order or to request that a court or an administrative process established pursuant to State law issue an order that requires the individual to—
(A) pay such support in accordance with a plan approved by the court, or, at the option of the State, a plan approved by the State agency administering the State program under this part; or
(B) if the individual is subject to such a plan and is not incapacitated, participate in such work activities (as defined in section 607(d) of this title) as the court, or, at the option of the State, the State agency administering the State program under this part, deems appropriate.
(16) Authority to withhold or suspend licenses.—Procedures under which the State has (and uses in appropriate cases) authority to withhold or suspend, or to restrict the use of driver's licenses, professional and occupational licenses, and recreational and sporting licenses of individuals owing overdue support or failing, after receiving appropriate notice, to comply with subpoenas or warrants relating to paternity or child support proceedings.
(17) Financial institution data matches.—
(A) In general.—Procedures under which the State agency shall enter into agreements with financial institutions doing business in the State—
(i) to develop and operate, in coordination with such financial institutions, and the Federal Parent Locator Service in the case of financial institutions doing business in two or more States, a data match system, using automated data exchanges to the maximum extent feasible, in which each such financial institution is required to provide for each calendar quarter the name, record address, social security number or other taxpayer identification number, and other identifying information for each noncustodial parent who maintains an account at such institution and who owes past-due support, as identified by the State by name and social security number or other taxpayer identification number; and
(ii) in response to a notice of lien or levy, encumber or surrender, as the case may be, assets held by such institution on behalf of any noncustodial parent who is subject to a child support lien pursuant to paragraph (4).
(B) Reasonable fees.—The State agency may pay a reasonable fee to a financial institution for conducting the data match provided for in subparagraph (A)(i), not to exceed the actual costs incurred by such financial institution.
(C) Liability.—A financial institution shall not be liable under any Federal or State law to any person—
(i) for any disclosure of information to the State agency under subparagraph (A)(i);
(ii) for encumbering or surrendering any assets held by such financial institution in response to a notice of lien or levy issued by the State agency as provided for in subparagraph (A)(ii); or
(iii) for any other action taken in good faith to comply with the requirements of subparagraph (A).
(D) Definitions.—For purposes of this paragraph—
(i) Financial institution.—The term "financial institution" has the meaning given to such term by section 669A(d)(1) of this title.
(ii) Account.—The term "account" means a demand deposit account, checking or negotiable withdrawal order account, savings account, time deposit account, or money-market mutual fund account.
(18) Enforcement of orders against paternal or maternal grandparents.—Procedures under which, at the State's option, any child support order enforced under this part with respect to a child of minor parents, if the custodial parent of such child is receiving assistance under the State program under part A, shall be enforceable, jointly and severally, against the parents of the noncustodial parent of such child.
(19) Health care coverage.—Procedures under which—
(A) effective as provided in section 401(c)(3) of the Child Support Performance and Incentive Act of 1998, all child support orders enforced pursuant to this part shall include a provision for medical support for the child to be provided by either or both parents, and shall be enforced, where appropriate, through the use of the National Medical Support Notice promulgated pursuant to section 401(b) of the Child Support Performance and Incentive Act of 1998 (and referred to in section 609(a)(5)(C) of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 [29 U.S.C. 1169(a)(5)(C)] in connection with group health plans covered under title I of such Act [29 U.S.C. 1001 et seq.], in section 401(e) of the Child Support Performance and Incentive Act of 1998 in connection with State or local group health plans, and in section 401(f) of such Act in connection with church group health plans);
(B) unless alternative coverage is allowed for in any order of the court (or other entity issuing the child support order), in any case in which a parent is required under the child support order to provide such health care coverage and the employer of such parent is known to the State agency—
(i) the State agency uses the National Medical Support Notice to transfer notice of the provision for the health care coverage of the child to the employer;
(ii) within 20 business days after the date of the National Medical Support Notice, the employer is required to transfer the Notice, excluding the severable employer withholding notice described in section 401(b)(2)(C) of the Child Support Performance and Incentive Act of 1998, to the appropriate plan providing any such health care coverage for which the child is eligible;
(iii) in any case in which the parent is a newly hired employee entered in the State Directory of New Hires pursuant to section 653a(e) of this title, the State agency provides, where appropriate, the National Medical Support Notice, together with an income withholding notice issued pursuant to subsection (b), within two days after the date of the entry of such employee in such Directory; and
(iv) in any case in which the employment of the parent with any employer who has received a National Medical Support Notice is terminated, such employer is required to notify the State agency of such termination; and
(C) any liability of the obligated parent to such plan for employee contributions which are required under such plan for enrollment of the child is effectively subject to appropriate enforcement, unless the obligated parent contests such enforcement based on a mistake of fact.
Notwithstanding section 654(20)(B) of this title, the procedures which are required under paragraphs (3), (4), (6), (7), and (15) need not be used or applied in cases where the State determines (using guidelines which are generally available within the State and which take into account the payment record of the noncustodial parent, the availability of other remedies, and other relevant considerations) that such use or application would not carry out the purposes of this part or would be otherwise inappropriate in the circumstances.
(b) Withholding from income of amounts payable as support
The procedures referred to in subsection (a)(1)(A) (relating to the withholding from income of amounts payable as support) must provide for the following:
(1) In the case of each noncustodial parent against whom a support order is or has been issued or modified in the State, and is being enforced under the State plan, so much of such parent's income must be withheld, in accordance with the succeeding provisions of this subsection, as is necessary to comply with the order and provide for the payment of any fee to the employer which may be required under paragraph (6)(A), up to the maximum amount permitted under section 1673(b) of title 15. If there are arrearages to be collected, amounts withheld to satisfy such arrearages, when added to the amounts withheld to pay current support and provide for the fee, may not exceed the limit permitted under such section 1673(b), but the State need not withhold up to the maximum amount permitted under such section in order to satisfy arrearages.
(2) Such withholding must be provided without the necessity of any application therefor in the case of a child (whether or not eligible for assistance under a State program funded under part A) with respect to whom services are already being provided under the State plan under this part, and must be provided in accordance with this subsection on the basis of an application for services under the State plan in the case of any other child in whose behalf a support order has been issued or modified in the State. In either case such withholding must occur without the need for any amendment to the support order involved or for any further action (other than those actions required under this part) by the court or other entity which issued such order.
(3)(A) The income of a noncustodial parent shall be subject to such withholding, regardless of whether support payments by such parent are in arrears, in the case of a support order being enforced under this part that is issued or modified on or after the first day of the 25th month beginning after October 13, 1988, on the effective date of the order; except that such income shall not be subject to such withholding under this subparagraph in any case where (i) one of the parties demonstrates, and the court (or administrative process) finds, that there is good cause not to require immediate income withholding, or (ii) a written agreement is reached between both parties which provides for an alternative arrangement.
(B) The income of a noncustodial parent shall become subject to such withholding, in the case of income not subject to withholding under subparagraph (A), on the date on which the payments which the noncustodial parent has failed to make under a support order are at least equal to the support payable for one month or, if earlier, and without regard to whether there is an arrearage, the earliest of—
(i) the date as of which the noncustodial parent requests that such withholding begin,
(ii) the date as of which the custodial parent requests that such withholding begin, if the State determines, in accordance with such procedures and standards as it may establish, that the request should be approved, or
(iii) such earlier date as the State may select.
(4)(A) Such withholding must be carried out in full compliance with all procedural due process requirements of the State, and the State must send notice to each noncustodial parent to whom paragraph (1) applies—
(i) that the withholding has commenced; and
(ii) of the procedures to follow if the noncustodial parent desires to contest such withholding on the grounds that the withholding or the amount withheld is improper due to a mistake of fact.
(B) The notice under subparagraph (A) of this paragraph shall include the information provided to the employer under paragraph (6)(A).
(5) Such withholding must be administered by the State through the State disbursement unit established pursuant to section 654b of this title, in accordance with the requirements of section 654b of this title.
(6)(A)(i) The employer of any noncustodial parent to whom paragraph (1) applies, upon being given notice as described in clause (ii), must be required to withhold from such noncustodial parent's income the amount specified by such notice (which may include a fee, established by the State, to be paid to the employer unless waived by such employer) and pay such amount (after deducting and retaining any portion thereof which represents the fee so established) to the State disbursement unit within 7 business days after the date the amount would (but for this subsection) have been paid or credited to the employee, for distribution in accordance with this part. The employer shall withhold funds as directed in the notice, except that when an employer receives an income withholding order issued by another State, the employer shall apply the income withholding law of the State of the obligor's principal place of employment in determining—
(I) the employer's fee for processing an income withholding order;
(II) the maximum amount permitted to be withheld from the obligor's income;
(III) the time periods within which the employer must implement the income withholding order and forward the child support payment;
(IV) the priorities for withholding and allocating income withheld for multiple child support obligees; and
(V) any withholding terms or conditions not specified in the order.
An employer who complies with an income withholding notice that is regular on its face shall not be subject to civil liability to any individual or agency for conduct in compliance with the notice.
(ii) The notice given to the employer shall be in a standard format prescribed by the Secretary, and contain only such information as may be necessary for the employer to comply with the withholding order.
(iii) As used in this subparagraph, the term "business day" means a day on which State offices are open for regular business.
(B) Methods must be established by the State to simplify the withholding process for employers to the greatest extent possible, including permitting any employer to combine all withheld amounts into a single payment to each appropriate agency or entity (with the portion thereof which is attributable to each individual employee being separately designated).
(C) The employer must be held liable to the State for any amount which such employer fails to withhold from income due an employee following receipt by such employer of proper notice under subparagraph (A), but such employer shall not be required to vary the normal pay and disbursement cycles in order to comply with this paragraph.
(D) Provision must be made for the imposition of a fine against any employer who—
(i) discharges from employment, refuses to employ, or takes disciplinary action against any noncustodial parent subject to income withholding required by this subsection because of the existence of such withholding and the obligations or additional obligations which it imposes upon the employer; or
(ii) fails to withhold support from income or to pay such amounts to the State disbursement unit in accordance with this subsection.
(7) Support collection under this subsection must be given priority over any other legal process under State law against the same income.
(8) For purposes of subsection (a) and this subsection, the term "income" means any periodic form of payment due to an individual, regardless of source, including wages, salaries, commissions, bonuses, worker's compensation, disability, payments pursuant to a pension or retirement program, and interest.
(9) The State must extend its withholding system under this subsection so that such system will include withholding from income derived within such State in cases where the applicable support orders were issued in other States, in order to assure that child support owed by noncustodial parents in such State or any other State will be collected without regard to the residence of the child for whom the support is payable or of such child's custodial parent.
(10) Provision must be made for terminating withholding.
(11) Procedures under which the agency administering the State plan approved under this part may execute a withholding order without advance notice to the obligor, including issuing the withholding order through electronic means.
(c) Expedited procedures
The procedures specified in this subsection are the following:
(1) Administrative action by State agency
Procedures which give the State agency the authority to take the following actions relating to establishment of paternity or to establishment, modification, or enforcement of support orders, without the necessity of obtaining an order from any other judicial or administrative tribunal, and to recognize and enforce the authority of State agencies of other States to take the following actions:
(A) Genetic testing
To order genetic testing for the purpose of paternity establishment as provided in subsection (a)(5).
(B) Financial or other information
To subpoena any financial or other information needed to establish, modify, or enforce a support order, and to impose penalties for failure to respond to such a subpoena.
(C) Response to State agency request
To require all entities in the State (including for-profit, nonprofit, and governmental employers) to provide promptly, in response to a request by the State agency of that or any other State administering a program under this part, information on the employment, compensation, and benefits of any individual employed by such entity as an employee or contractor, and to sanction failure to respond to any such request.
(D) Access to information contained in certain records
To obtain access, subject to safeguards on privacy and information security, and subject to the nonliability of entities that afford such access under this subparagraph, to information contained in the following records (including automated access, in the case of records maintained in automated data bases):
(i) Records of other State and local government agencies, including—
(I) vital statistics (including records of marriage, birth, and divorce);
(II) State and local tax and revenue records (including information on residence address, employer, income and assets);
(III) records concerning real and titled personal property;
(IV) records of occupational and professional licenses, and records concerning the ownership and control of corporations, partnerships, and other business entities;
(V) employment security records;
(VI) records of agencies administering public assistance programs;
(VII) records of the motor vehicle department; and
(VIII) corrections records.
(ii) Certain records held by private entities with respect to individuals who owe or are owed support (or against or with respect to whom a support obligation is sought), consisting of—
(I) the names and addresses of such individuals and the names and addresses of the employers of such individuals, as appearing in customer records of public utilities and cable television companies, pursuant to an administrative subpoena authorized by subparagraph (B); and
(II) information (including information on assets and liabilities) on such individuals held by financial institutions.
(E) Change in payee
In cases in which support is subject to an assignment in order to comply with a requirement imposed pursuant to part A, part E, or section 1396k of this title, or to a requirement to pay through the State disbursement unit established pursuant to section 654b of this title, upon providing notice to obligor and obligee, to direct the obligor or other payor to change the payee to the appropriate government entity.
(F) Income withholding
To order income withholding in accordance with subsections (a)(1)(A) and (b).
(G) Securing assets
In cases in which there is a support arrearage, to secure assets to satisfy any current support obligation and the arrearage by—
(i) intercepting or seizing periodic or lump-sum payments from—
(I) a State or local agency, including unemployment compensation, workers' compensation, and other benefits; and
(II) judgments, settlements, and lotteries;
(ii) attaching and seizing assets of the obligor held in financial institutions;
(iii) attaching public and private retirement funds; and
(iv) imposing liens in accordance with subsection (a)(4) and, in appropriate cases, to force sale of property and distribution of proceeds.
(H) Increase monthly payments
For the purpose of securing overdue support, to increase the amount of monthly support payments to include amounts for arrearages, subject to such conditions or limitations as the State may provide.
Such procedures shall be subject to due process safeguards, including (as appropriate) requirements for notice, opportunity to contest the action, and opportunity for an appeal on the record to an independent administrative or judicial tribunal.
(2) Substantive and procedural rules
The expedited procedures required under subsection (a)(2) shall include the following rules and authority, applicable with respect to all proceedings to establish paternity or to establish, modify, or enforce support orders:
(A) Locator information; presumptions concerning notice
Procedures under which—
(i) each party to any paternity or child support proceeding is required (subject to privacy safeguards) to file with the State case registry upon entry of an order, and to update as appropriate, information on location and identity of the party, including social security number, residential and mailing addresses, telephone number, driver's license number, and name, address, and telephone number of employer; and
(ii) in any subsequent child support enforcement action between the parties, upon sufficient showing that diligent effort has been made to ascertain the location of such a party, the court or administrative agency of competent jurisdiction shall deem State due process requirements for notice and service of process to be met with respect to the party, upon delivery of written notice to the most recent residential or employer address filed with the State case registry pursuant to clause (i).
(B) Statewide jurisdiction
Procedures under which—
(i) the State agency and any administrative or judicial tribunal with authority to hear child support and paternity cases exerts statewide jurisdiction over the parties; and
(ii) in a State in which orders are issued by courts or administrative tribunals, a case may be transferred between local jurisdictions in the State without need for any additional filing by the petitioner, or service of process upon the respondent, to retain jurisdiction over the parties.
(3) Coordination with ERISA
Notwithstanding subsection (d) of section 514 of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 [29 U.S.C. 1144(d)] (relating to effect on other laws), nothing in this subsection shall be construed to alter, amend, modify, invalidate, impair, or supersede subsections (a), (b), and (c) of such section 514 [29 U.S.C. 1144(a)–(c)] as it applies with respect to any procedure referred to in paragraph (1) and any expedited procedure referred to in paragraph (2), except to the extent that such procedure would be consistent with the requirements of section 206(d)(3) of such Act [29 U.S.C. 1056(d)(3)] (relating to qualified domestic relations orders) or the requirements of section 609(a) of such Act [29 U.S.C. 1169(a)] (relating to qualified medical child support orders) if the reference in such section 206(d)(3) to a domestic relations order and the reference in such section 609(a) to a medical child support order were a reference to a support order referred to in paragraphs (1) and (2) relating to the same matters, respectively.
(d) Exemption of States
If a State demonstrates to the satisfaction of the Secretary, through the presentation to the Secretary of such data pertaining to caseloads, processing times, administrative costs, and average support collections, and such other data or estimates as the Secretary may specify, that the enactment of any law or the use of any procedure or procedures required by or pursuant to this section will not increase the effectiveness and efficiency of the State child support enforcement program, the Secretary may exempt the State, subject to the Secretary's continuing review and to termination of the exemption should circumstances change, from the requirement to enact the law or use the procedure or procedures involved.
(e) "Overdue support" defined
For purposes of this section, the term "overdue support" means the amount of a delinquency pursuant to an obligation determined under a court order, or an order of an administrative process established under State law, for support and maintenance of a minor child which is owed to or on behalf of such child, or for support and maintenance of the noncustodial parent's spouse (or former spouse) with whom the child is living if and to the extent that spousal support (with respect to such spouse or former spouse) would be included for purposes of section 654(4) of this title. At the option of the State, overdue support may include amounts which otherwise meet the definition in the first sentence of this subsection but which are owed to or on behalf of a child who is not a minor child. The option to include support owed to children who are not minors shall apply independently to each procedure specified under this section.
(f) Uniform Interstate Family Support Act
In order to satisfy section 654(20)(A) of this title, each State must have in effect the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act, as approved by the American Bar Association on February 9, 1993, including any amendments officially adopted as of September 30, 2008 by the National Conference of Commissioners on Uniform State Laws.
(g) Laws voiding fraudulent transfers
In order to satisfy section 654(20)(A) of this title, each State must have in effect—
(1)(A) the Uniform Fraudulent Conveyance Act of 1981;
(B) the Uniform Fraudulent Transfer Act of 1984; or
(C) another law, specifying indicia of fraud which create a prima facie case that a debtor transferred income or property to avoid payment to a child support creditor, which the Secretary finds affords comparable rights to child support creditors; and
(2) procedures under which, in any case in which the State knows of a transfer by a child support debtor with respect to which such a prima facie case is established, the State must—
(A) seek to void such transfer; or
(B) obtain a settlement in the best interests of the child support creditor.
(Aug. 14, 1935, ch. 531, title IV, §466, as added Pub. L. 98–378, §3(b), Aug. 16, 1984, 98 Stat. 1306; amended Pub. L. 99–509, title IX, §9103(a), Oct. 21, 1986, 100 Stat. 1973; Pub. L. 100–485, title I, §§101(a), (b), 103(c), 111(b), (e), Oct. 13, 1988, 102 Stat. 2344–2346, 2349, 2350; Pub. L. 100–647, title VIII, §8105(4), Nov. 10, 1988, 102 Stat. 3797; Pub. L. 103–66, title XIII, §13721(b), Aug. 10, 1993, 107 Stat. 659; Pub. L. 103–432, title II, §212(a), Oct. 31, 1994, 108 Stat. 4460; Pub. L. 104–193, title I, §108(c)(14), (15), title III, §§301(c)(3), (4), 314, 315, 317, 321, 323, 325(a), 331(a), 351, 364, 365, 367–369, 372, 373, 382, 395(d)(1)(H), (2)(D), Aug. 22, 1996, 110 Stat. 2166, 2200, 2212, 2214, 2220-2222, 2224, 2227, 2239, 2249-2251, 2254, 2255, 2257, 2259, 2260; Pub. L. 105–33, title V, §§5532(i)(2), 5536–5539, 5544, 5550(a), 5551, 5556(a), (e), Aug. 5, 1997, 111 Stat. 627, 629-631, 633, 634, 637; Pub. L. 105–200, title IV, §§401(c)(1), 404(a), 406(a), July 16, 1998, 112 Stat. 661, 671; Pub. L. 106–169, title IV, §401(f), (m), (n), Dec. 14, 1999, 113 Stat. 1858, 1859; Pub. L. 109–171, title VII, §§7301(g), 7302(a), 7307(a)(1), (2)(A)(ii), Feb. 8, 2006, 120 Stat. 145, 146; Pub. L. 113–183, title III, §301(f)(1), Sept. 29, 2014, 128 Stat. 1944.)
Editorial Notes
References in Text
Sections 401(b) and 401(c)(3) of the Child Support Performance and Incentive Act of 1998, Pub. L. 105–200, referred to in subsec. (a)(19)(A), (B)(ii), are set out as notes under sections 651 and 652 of this title, respectively. Sections 401(e) and 401(f) of the Act, referred to in subsec. (a)(19)(A), are set out in a note under section 1169 of Title 29, Labor.
The Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, referred to in subsec. (a)(19)(A), is Pub. L. 93–406, Sept. 2, 1974, 88 Stat. 829. Title I of the Act is classified generally to subchapter I (§1001 et seq.) of chapter 18 of Title 29, Labor. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 1001 of Title 29 and Tables.
Codification
October 13, 1988, referred to in subsec. (b)(3)(A), was in the original "the date of enactment of this paragraph", which was translated as meaning the date of enactment of Pub. L. 100–485, which amended par. (3) of this section generally, to reflect the probable intent of Congress.
Amendments
2014—Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 113–183 struck out "on and after January 1, 1998," before "each State" and "and as in effect on August 22, 1996," before "including any amendments" and substituted "adopted as of September 30, 2008" for "adopted as of such date".
2006—Subsec. (a)(10)(A)(i). Pub. L. 109–171, §7302(a), in introductory provisions, substituted "parent or" for "parent, or," and struck out "upon the request of the State agency under the State plan or of either parent," after "under part A,".
Subsec. (a)(14)(A)(iii). Pub. L. 109–171, §7301(g), inserted "(but the assisting State may establish a corresponding case based on such other State's request for assistance)" before semicolon.
Subsec. (a)(19)(A). Pub. L. 109–171, §7307(a)(1), (2)(A)(ii)(I), substituted "shall include a provision for medical support for the child to be provided by either or both parents, and shall be enforced" for "which include a provision for the health care coverage of the child are enforced", "section 401(e)" for "section 401(e)(3)(C)", and "section 401(f)" for "section 401(f)(5)(C)".
Subsec. (a)(19)(B). Pub. L. 109–171, §7307(a)(2)(A)(ii)(II)(aa), struck out "noncustodial" before "parent" in two places in introductory provisions.
Subsec. (a)(19)(B)(iii). Pub. L. 109–171, §7307(a)(2)(A)(ii)(II)(bb), made technical amendment to reference in original act which appears in text as reference to subsection (b).
Pub. L. 109–171, §7307(a)(2)(A)(ii)(II)(aa), struck out "noncustodial" before "parent".
Subsec. (a)(19)(B)(iv). Pub. L. 109–171, §7307(a)(2)(A)(ii)(II)(aa), struck out "noncustodial" before "parent".
Subsec. (a)(19)(C). Pub. L. 109–171, §7307(a)(2)(A)(ii)(III), substituted "obligated" for "noncustodial" in two places.
1999—Subsec. (a)(7)(A). Pub. L. 106–169, §401(m), substituted "1681a(f) of title 15)" for "1681a(f) of title 15".
Subsec. (b)(6)(A)(i). Pub. L. 106–169, §401(n), substituted "State of the obligor's" for "state of the obligor's" in introductory provisions.
Subsec. (c)(2)(A)(i). Pub. L. 106–169, §401(f), substituted "social security" for "Social Security".
1998—Subsec. (a)(14)(B). Pub. L. 105–200, §404(a), amended heading and text of subpar. (B) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: "In this part, the term 'high-volume automated administrative enforcement' means the use of automatic data processing to search various State data bases, including license records, employment service data, and State new hire registries, to determine whether information is available regarding a parent who owes a child support obligation."
Subsec. (a)(17)(A)(i). Pub. L. 105–200, §406(a), inserted "and the Federal Parent Locator Service in the case of financial institutions doing business in two or more States," before "a data match system".
Subsec. (a)(19). Pub. L. 105–200, §401(c)(1), amended heading and text of par. (19) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: "Procedures under which all child support orders enforced pursuant to this part shall include a provision for the health care coverage of the child, and in the case in which a noncustodial parent provides such coverage and changes employment, and the new employer provides health care coverage, the State agency shall transfer notice of the provision to the employer, which notice shall operate to enroll the child in the noncustodial parent's health plan, unless the noncustodial parent contests the notice."
1997—Subsec. (a)(1)(B). Pub. L. 105–33, §5556(e), substituted "January 1, 1994" for "October 1, 1996".
Subsec. (a)(3)(B). Pub. L. 105–33, §5532(i)(2), substituted "section 657" for "section 657(b)(4) or (d)(3)".
Subsec. (a)(5)(C)(i). Pub. L. 105–33, §5539, inserted ", or through the use of video or audio equipment," after "orally".
Subsec. (a)(13). Pub. L. 105–33, §5536(2), inserted "to be used on the face of the document while the social security number is kept on file at the agency" after "other than the social security number" in concluding provisions.
Subsec. (a)(13)(A). Pub. L. 105–33, §5536(1)(B), inserted "recreational license," after "occupational license,".
Pub. L. 105–33, §5536(1)(A), struck out "commercial" before "driver's license".
Subsec. (a)(14). Pub. L. 105–33, §5550(a), amended heading and text of par. (14) generally. Prior to amendment, text consisted of subpars. (A) to (D) relating to administrative enforcement in interstate cases.
Subsec. (a)(15). Pub. L. 105–33, §5551, amended heading and text of par. (15) generally. Prior to amendment, text related to procedures to ensure that persons owning past-due support work or have a plan for payment of such support.
Subsec. (a)(16). Pub. L. 105–33, §5544, inserted "and sporting" after "recreational".
Subsec. (c)(1)(E). Pub. L. 105–33, §5538(1)(A), inserted ", part E," after "part A".
Subsec. (c)(1)(F). Pub. L. 105–33, §5556(a), made technical amendment to reference in original act which appears in text as reference to subsections (a)(1)(A) and (b).
Subsec. (c)(1)(G). Pub. L. 105–33, §5538(1)(B), inserted "any current support obligation and" after "to satisfy" in introductory provisions.
Subsec. (c)(2)(A)(i). Pub. L. 105–33, §5538(2)(A), struck out "the tribunal and" after "to file with".
Subsec. (c)(2)(A)(ii). Pub. L. 105–33, §5538(2)(B), substituted "court or administrative agency of competent jurisdiction shall" for "tribunal may" and "filed with the State case registry" for "filed with the tribunal".
Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 105–33, §5537, substituted "and as in effect on August 22, 1996, including any amendments officially adopted as of such date by the National Conference of Commissioners on Uniform State Laws." for "together with any amendments officially adopted before January 1, 1998 by the National Conference of Commissioners on Uniform State Laws."
1996—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 104–193, §§365(b), 395(d)(1)(H), in closing provisions, substituted "(7), and (15)" for "and (7)" and "noncustodial parent" for "absent parent".
Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 104–193, §314(a)(1), amended par. (1) generally. Prior to amendment, par. (1) read as follows: "Procedures described in subsection (b) of this section for the withholding from income of amounts payable as support."
Subsec. (a)(2). Pub. L. 104–193, §325(a)(1), substituted "Expedited administrative and judicial procedures (including the procedures specified in subsection (c)) for establishing paternity and for establishing, modifying, and enforcing support obligations." for "Procedures under which expedited processes (determined in accordance with regulations of the Secretary) are in effect under the State judicial system or under State administrative processes (A) for obtaining and enforcing support orders, and (B) for establishing paternity."
Subsec. (a)(3)(A). Pub. L. 104–193, §395(d)(1)(H), (2)(D), substituted "a noncustodial parent" for "an absent parent" and substituted "noncustodial parent" for "absent parent" in two places.
Subsec. (a)(3)(B). Pub. L. 104–193, §301(c)(3), substituted "in any other case" for "in the case of overdue support which a State has agreed to collect under section 654(6) of this title".
Pub. L. 104–193, §108(c)(14), substituted "section 608(a)(3)" for "section 602(a)(26)".
(a)(3)(C). Pub. L. 104–193, §395(d)(1)(H), substituted "noncustodial parent's" for "absent parent's".
Subsec. (a)(4). Pub. L. 104–193, §368, inserted heading and amended text of par. (4) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: "Procedures under which liens are imposed against real and personal property for amounts of overdue support owed by an absent parent who resides or owns property in the State."
Subsec. (a)(5). Pub. L. 104–193, §331(a), inserted heading and amended text of par. (5) generally. Prior to amendment, text related to establishment of child's paternity prior to child's eighteenth birthday.
Subsec. (a)(6). Pub. L. 104–193, §395(d)(1)(H), (2)(D), substituted "a noncustodial parent give security" for "an absent parent give security" and "noncustodial parent of the proposed action" for "absent parent of the proposed action".
Subsec. (a)(7). Pub. L. 104–193, §367, inserted heading and amended text of par. (7) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: "Procedures which require the State to periodically report to consumer reporting agencies (as defined in section 1681a(f) of title 15) the name of any parent who owes overdue support and is at least 2 months delinquent in the payment of such support and the amount of such delinquency; except that (A) if the amount of the overdue support involved in any case is less than $1,000, information regarding such amount shall be made available only at the option of the State, (B) any information with respect to an absent parent shall be made available under such procedures only after notice has been sent to such absent parent of the proposed action, and such absent parent has been given a reasonable opportunity to contest the accuracy of such information (and after full compliance with all procedural due process requirements of the State), and (C) such information shall not be made available to (i) a consumer reporting agency which the State determines does not have sufficient capability to systematically and timely make accurate use of such information, or (ii) an entity which has not furnished evidence satisfactory to the State that the entity is a consumer reporting agency."
Subsec. (a)(8)(A). Pub. L. 104–193, §314(b)(2)(A), substituted "income" for "wages".
Subsec. (a)(8)(B)(i). Pub. L. 104–193, §§314(b)(2)(A), 395(d)(2)(D), substituted "income" for "wages" in two places and "a noncustodial parent" for "an absent parent".
Subsec. (a)(8)(B)(ii). Pub. L. 104–193, §395(d)(1)(H), substituted "noncustodial parent" for "absent parent".
Subsec. (a)(10). Pub. L. 104–193, §351, inserted heading and amended text of par. (10) generally. Prior to amendment, text consisted of subpars. (A) to (C) relating to procedures to ensure review of child support orders and to ensure that States implement a process for periodic review and adjustment of child support orders and provide certain notices to parents subject to child support order of matters relating to the review and adjustment of those orders.
Subsec. (a)(12). Pub. L. 104–193, §315, added par. (12).
Subsec. (a)(13). Pub. L. 104–193, §317, added par. (13).
Subsec. (a)(14). Pub. L. 104–193, §323, added par. (14).
Subsec. (a)(15). Pub. L. 104–193, §365(a), added par. (15).
Subsec. (a)(16). Pub. L. 104–193, §369, added par. (16).
Subsec. (a)(17). Pub. L. 104–193, §372, added par. (17).
Subsec. (a)(18). Pub. L. 104–193, §373, added par. (18).
Subsec. (a)(19). Pub. L. 104–193, §382, added par. (19).
Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 104–193, §314(a)(2)(A), substituted "subsection (a)(1)(A)" for "subsection (a)(1)" in introductory provisions.
Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 104–193, §§314(b)(2)(B), 395(d)(1)(H), substituted "noncustodial parent" for "absent parent" and "income" for "wages (as defined by the State for purposes of this section)".
Subsec. (b)(2). Pub. L. 104–193, §108(c)(15), substituted "assistance under a State program funded under part A" for "aid under part A".
Subsec. (b)(3)(A). Pub. L. 104–193, §§314(b)(2)(A), 395(d)(2)(D), substituted "income" for "wages" in two places and "a noncustodial parent" for "an absent parent".
Subsec. (b)(3)(B). Pub. L. 104–193, §§314(b)(2)(A), 395(d)(1)(H), (2)(D), in introductory provisions, substituted "income" for "wages" in two places, "a noncustodial parent" for "an absent parent", and "the noncustodial parent" for "the absent parent".
Subsec. (b)(3)(B)(i). Pub. L. 104–193, §395(d)(1)(H), substituted "noncustodial parent" for "absent parent".
Subsec. (b)(4). Pub. L. 104–193, §314(a)(2)(B), amended par. (4) generally. Prior to amendment, par. (4) read as follows:
"(A) Such withholding must be carried out in full compliance with all procedural due process requirements of the State, and (subject to subparagraph (B)) the State must send advance notice to each absent parent to whom paragraph (1) applies regarding the proposed withholding and the procedures such absent parent should follow if he or she desires to contest such withholding on the grounds that withholding (including the amount to be withheld) is not proper in the case involved because of mistakes of fact. If the absent parent contests such withholding on those grounds, the State shall determine whether such withholding will actually occur, shall (within no more than 45 days after the provision of such advance notice) inform such parent of whether or not withholding will occur and (if so) of the date on which it is to begin, and shall furnish such parent with the information contained in any notice given to the employer under paragraph (6)(A) with respect to such withholding.
"(B) The requirement of advance notice set forth in the first sentence of subparagraph (A) shall not apply in the case of any State which has a system of income withholding for child support purposes in effect on August 16, 1984, if such system provides on that date, and continues to provide, such procedures as may be necessary to meet the procedural due process requirements of State law."
Subsec. (b)(5). Pub. L. 104–193, §314(a)(2)(C), substituted "the State through the State disbursement unit established pursuant to section 654b of this title, in accordance with the requirements of section 654b of this title." for "a public agency designated by the State, and the amounts withheld must be expeditiously distributed by the State or such agency in accordance with section 657 of this title under procedures (specified by the State) adequate to document payments of support and to track and monitor such payments, except that the State may establish or permit the establishment of alternative procedures for the collection and distribution of such amounts (under the supervision of such public agency) otherwise than through such public agency so long as the entity making such collection and distribution is publicly accountable for its actions taken in carrying out such procedures, and so long as such procedures will assure prompt distribution, provide for the keeping of adequate records to document payments of support, and permit the tracking and monitoring of such payments."
Subsec. (b)(6)(A)(i). Pub. L. 104–193, §§314(a)(2)(D)(i), (b)(2)(A), 395(d)(1)(H), substituted "The employer of any noncustodial parent" for "The employer of any absent parent", "withhold from such noncustodial parent's income" for "withhold from such absent parent's wages", and "to the State disbursement unit within 7 business days after the date the amount would (but for this subsection) have been paid or credited to the employee, for distribution in accordance with this part. The employer shall withhold funds as directed in the notice, except that when an employer receives an income withholding order issued by another State, the employer shall apply the income withholding law of the state of the obligor's principal place of employment in determining—" for "to the appropriate agency (or other entity authorized to collect the amounts withheld under the alternative procedures described in paragraph (5)) for distribution in accordance with section 657 of this title.", and added subcls. (I) to (V) and closing provisions.
Subsec. (b)(6)(A)(ii). Pub. L. 104–193, §314(a)(2)(D)(ii), inserted "be in a standard format prescribed by the Secretary, and" after "employer shall".
Subsec. (b)(6)(A)(iii). Pub. L. 104–193, §314(a)(2)(D)(iii), added cl. (iii).
Subsec. (b)(6)(C). Pub. L. 104–193, §314(b)(2)(A), substituted "income" for "wages".
Subsec. (b)(6)(D). Pub. L. 104–193, §314(a)(2)(E), substituted "any employer who—" for "any employer who discharges from employment, refuses to employ, or takes disciplinary action against any absent parent subject to wage withholding required by this subsection because of the existence of such withholding and the obligations or additional obligations which it imposes upon the employer." and added cls. (i) and (ii).
Subsec. (b)(7). Pub. L. 104–193, §314(b)(2)(A), substituted "income" for "wages".
Subsec. (b)(8). Pub. L. 104–193, §314(b)(1), amended par. (8) generally. Prior to amendment, par. (8) read as follows: "The State may take such actions as may be necessary to extend its system of withholding under this subsection so that such system will include withholding from forms of income other than wages, in order to assure that child support owed by absent parents in the State will be collected without regard to the types of such absent parents' income or the nature of their income-producing activities."
Subsec. (b)(9). Pub. L. 104–193, §395(d)(1)(H), substituted "noncustodial parents" for "absent parents".
Subsec. (b)(11). Pub. L. 104–193, §314(a)(2)(F), added par. (11).
Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 104–193, §325(a)(2), added subsec. (c).
Pub. L. 104–193, §314(c), struck out subsec. (c) which read as follows: "Any State may at its option, under its plan approved under section 654 of this title, establish procedures under which support payments under this part will be made through the State agency or other entity which administers the State's income withholding system in any case where either the absent parent or the custodial parent requests it, even though no arrearages in child support payments are involved and no income withholding procedures have been instituted; but in any such case an annual fee for handling and processing such payments, in an amount not exceeding the actual costs incurred by the State in connection therewith or $25, whichever is less, shall be imposed on the requesting parent by the State."
Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 104–193, §§301(c)(4), 395(d)(1)(H), substituted "noncustodial parent's spouse" for "absent parent's spouse" and "section 654(4)" for "paragraph (4) or (6) of section 654".
Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 104–193, §321, added subsec. (f).
Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 104–193, §364, added subsec. (g).
1994—Subsec. (a)(7). Pub. L. 103–432, §212(a)(1), substituted "Procedures which require the State to periodically report to consumer reporting agencies (as defined in section 1681a(f) of title 15) the name of any parent who owes overdue support and is at least 2 months delinquent in the payment of such support and the amount of such delinquency" for "Procedures by which information regarding the amount of overdue support owed by an absent parent residing in the State will be made available to any consumer reporting agency (as defined in section 1681a(f) of title 15) upon the request of such agency".
Subsec. (a)(7)(C). Pub. L. 103–432, §212(a)(2), substituted "(C) such information shall not be made available to (i) a consumer reporting agency which the State determines does not have sufficient capability to systematically and timely make accurate use of such information, or (ii) an entity which has not furnished evidence satisfactory to the State that the entity is a consumer reporting agency" for "(C) a fee for furnishing such information, in an amount not exceeding the actual cost thereof, may be imposed on the requesting agency by the State".
1993—Subsec. (a)(2). Pub. L. 103–66, §13721(b)(1), struck out "at the option of the State," after "and (B)" and inserted "or paternity establishment" after "support order issuance and enforcement".
Subsec. (a)(5)(C) to (H). Pub. L. 103–66, §13721(b)(2), added subpars. (C) to (H).
Subsec. (a)(11). Pub. L. 103–66, §13721(b)(3), added par. (11).
1988—Subsec. (a)(5). Pub. L. 100–485, §111(b), designated existing provisions as subpar. (A) and added subpar. (B).
Subsec. (a)(5)(A). Pub. L. 100–485, §111(e), as amended by Pub. L. 100–647, designated existing provisions as cl. (i) and added cl. (ii).
Subsec. (a)(8). Pub. L. 100–485, §101(b), designated existing provisions as subpar. (A), substituted "not described in subparagraph (B)" for "which are issued or modified in the State", and added subpar. (B).
Subsec. (a)(10). Pub. L. 100–485, §103(c), added par. (10).
Subsec. (b)(3). Pub. L. 100–485, §101(a), amended par. (3) generally. Prior to amendment, par. (3) read as follows: "An absent parent shall become subject to such withholding, and the advance notice required under paragraph (4) shall be given, on the earliest of—
"(A) the date on which the payments which the absent parent has failed to make under such order are at least equal to the support payable for one month,
"(B) the date as of which the absent parent requests that such withholding begin, or
"(C) such earlier date as the State may select."
1986—Subsec. (a)(9). Pub. L. 99–509 added par. (9).
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 2014 Amendment
Pub. L. 113–183, title III, §301(f)(3)(A), Sept. 29, 2014, 128 Stat. 1945, provided that:
"(i) The amendments made by paragraph (1) [amending this section] shall take effect with respect to a State no later than the effective date of laws enacted by the legislature of the State implementing such paragraph, but in no event later than the first day of the first calendar quarter beginning after the close of the first regular session of the State legislature that begins after the date of the enactment of this Act [Sept. 29, 2014].
"(ii) For purposes of clause (i), in the case of a State that has a 2-year legislative session, each year of the session shall be deemed to be a separate regular session of the State legislature."
Effective Date of 2006 Amendment
Amendment by sections 7301(g) and 7307(a)(1), (2)(A)(ii) of Pub. L. 109–171 effective as if enacted on Oct. 1, 2005, except as otherwise provided, see section 7701 of Pub. L. 109–171, set out as a note under section 603 of this title.
Pub. L. 109–171, title VII, §7302(b), Feb. 8, 2006, 120 Stat. 145, provided that: "The amendments made by subsection (a) [amending this section] shall take effect on October 1, 2007."
Effective Date of 1999 Amendment
Amendment by Pub. L. 106–169 effective as if included in the enactment of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996, Pub. L. 104–193, see section 401(q) of Pub. L. 106–169, set out as a note under section 602 of this title.
Effective Date of 1998 Amendment
Amendment by section 401(c)(1) of Pub. L. 105–200 effective with respect to periods beginning on or after the later of Oct. 1, 2001, or the effective date of laws enacted by the legislature of such State implementing such amendment, but in no event later than the first day of the first calendar quarter beginning after the close of the first regular session of the State legislature that begins after Oct. 1, 2001, see section 401(c)(3) of Pub. L. 105–200, as amended, set out as a note under section 652 of this title.
Pub. L. 105–200, title IV, §404(b), July 16, 1998, 112 Stat. 671, provided that: "The amendment made by subsection (a) [amending this section] shall take effect as if included in the enactment of section 5550 of the Balanced Budget Act of 1997 (Public Law 105–33; 111 Stat. 633)."
Effective Date of 1997 Amendment
Amendment by Pub. L. 105–33 effective as if included in the enactment of title III of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996, Pub. L. 104–193, except that amendment made by section 5536(1)(A) of Pub. L. 105–33 not effective with respect to a State until Oct. 1, 2000, or such earlier date as the State may elect, see section 5557 of Pub. L. 105–33, as amended, set out as a note under section 608 of this title.
Effective Date of 1996 Amendment
Amendment by section 108(c)(14), (15) of Pub. L. 104–193 effective July 1, 1997, with transition rules relating to State options to accelerate such date, rules relating to claims, actions, and proceedings commenced before such date, rules relating to closing out of accounts for terminated or substantially modified programs and continuance in office of Assistant Secretary for Family Support, and provisions relating to termination of entitlement under AFDC program, see section 116 of Pub. L. 104–193, as amended, set out as an Effective Date note under section 601 of this title.
For effective date of amendments by title III of Pub. L. 104–193, see section 395(a)–(c) of Pub. L. 104–193, set out as a note under section 654 of this title.
Effective Date of 1994 Amendment
Pub. L. 103–432, title II, §212(b), Oct. 31, 1994, 108 Stat. 4461, provided that: "The amendments made by subsection (a) [amending this section] shall take effect on October 1, 1995."
Effective Date of 1993 Amendment
Amendment by Pub. L. 103–66 effective with respect to a State on later of Oct. 1, 1993, or date of enactment by legislature of such State of all laws required by such amendments made by section 13721 of Pub. L. 103–66, but in no event later than first day of first calendar quarter beginning after close of first regular session of State legislature that begins after Aug. 10, 1993, and, in case of State that has 2-year legislative session, each year of such session deemed to be separate regular session of State legislature, see section 13721(c) of Pub. L. 103–66, set out as a note under section 652 of this title.
Effective Date of 1988 Amendment
Pub. L. 100–647, title VIII, §8105, Nov. 10, 1988, 102 Stat. 3797, provided that amendments made by that section, amending sections 607 and 669 of this title and amending provisions of Pub. L. 100–485 which are classified to this section and section 607 of this title, are effective on date of enactment of Family Support Act of 1988, Pub. L. 100–485, which was approved Oct. 13, 1988.
Pub. L. 100–485, title I, §101(d), Oct. 13, 1988, 102 Stat. 2346, provided that:
"(1) The amendment made by subsection (a) [amending this section] shall become effective on the first day of the 25th month beginning after the date of the enactment of this Act [Oct. 13, 1988].
"(2) The amendments made by subsection (b) [amending this section] shall become effective on January 1, 1994.
"(3) Subsection (c) [set out below] shall become effective on the date of the enactment of this Act."
Pub. L. 100–485, title I, §103(f), Oct. 13, 1988, 102 Stat. 2348, provided that: "The amendments made by subsections (a), (b), and (c) [amending this section and section 667 of this title] shall become effective one year after the date of the enactment of this Act [Oct. 13, 1988]."
Amendment by section 111(b) of Pub. L. 100–485 effective on first day of first month beginning one year or more after Oct. 13, 1988, see section 111(f)(2) of Pub. L. 100–485, set out as a note under section 654 of this title.
Amendment by section 111(e) of Pub. L. 100–485 effective Oct. 13, 1988, see section 111(f)(1) of Pub. L. 100–485, set out as a note under section 652 of this title.
Effective Date of 1986 Amendment
Pub. L. 99–509, title IX, §9103(b), Oct. 21, 1986, 100 Stat. 1973, provided that:
"(1) Except as provided in paragraph (2), the amendment made by subsection (a) [amending this section] shall become effective on the date of the enactment of this Act [Oct. 21, 1986].
"(2) In the case of a State with respect to which the Secretary of Health and Human Services has determined that State legislation is required in order to conform the State plan approved under part D of title IV of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 651 et seq.] to the requirements imposed by the amendment made by subsection (a) [amending this section], the State plan shall not be regarded as failing to comply with the requirements of such part solely by reason of its failure to meet the requirements imposed by such amendment prior to the beginning of the fourth month beginning after the end of the first session of the State legislature which ends on or after the date of the enactment of this Act [Oct. 21, 1986]. For purposes of the preceding sentence, the term 'session' means a regular, special, budget, or other session of a State legislature."
Effective Date
Section effective Oct. 1, 1985, except that subsec. (e) effective with respect to support owed for any month beginning after Aug. 16, 1984, see section 3(g) of Pub. L. 98–378, set out as an Effective Date of 1984 Amendment note under section 654 of this title.
Study on Making Immediate Income Withholding Mandatory in All Cases
Pub. L. 100–485, title I, §101(c), Oct. 13, 1988, 102 Stat. 2345, directed Secretary of Health and Human Services to conduct a study of administrative feasibility, cost implications, and other effects of requiring immediate income withholding with respect to all child support awards in a State and report on results of such study not later than 3 years after Oct. 13, 1988.
Study of Impact of Extending Periodic Review Requirements to All Other Cases
Pub. L. 100–485, title I, §103(d), Oct. 13, 1988, 102 Stat. 2347, directed Secretary of Health and Human Resources, within 2 years after Oct. 13, 1988, to conduct and complete a study to determine impact on child support awards and the courts of requiring each State to periodically review all child support orders in effect in the State.
Demonstration Projects for Evaluating Model Procedures for Reviewing Child Support Awards
Pub. L. 100–485, title I, §103(e), Oct. 13, 1988, 102 Stat. 2347, authorized an agreement between Secretary of Health and Human Services and each State submitting an application for purpose of conducting a demonstration project to test and evaluate model procedures for reviewing child support award amounts, directed that such projects be commenced not later than Sept. 30, 1989, and be conducted for a 2-year period, and directed Secretary to report results of such projects to Congress not later than 6 months after all projects are completed.
Commission on Interstate Child Support
Pub. L. 100–485, title I, §126, Oct. 13, 1988, 102 Stat. 2354, as amended by Pub. L. 101–508, title V, §5012(a), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1388–221; Pub. L. 102–318, title V, §534(a), July 3, 1992, 106 Stat. 317, established Commission on Interstate Child Support to hold national conferences on interstate child support reform and prepare report to Congress containing recommendations for improving interstate establishment and enforcement of child support awards and for revising Uniform Reciprocal Enforcement of Support Act and provided for powers of the Commission, appropriations, and termination of the Commission on Sept. 30, 1992.
§667. State guidelines for child support awards
(a) Establishment of guidelines; method
Each State, as a condition for having its State plan approved under this part, must establish guidelines for child support award amounts within the State. The guidelines may be established by law or by judicial or administrative action, and shall be reviewed at least once every 4 years to ensure that their application results in the determination of appropriate child support award amounts.
(b) Availability of guidelines; rebuttable presumption
(1) The guidelines established pursuant to subsection (a) shall be made available to all judges and other officials who have the power to determine child support awards within such State.
(2) There shall be a rebuttable presumption, in any judicial or administrative proceeding for the award of child support, that the amount of the award which would result from the application of such guidelines is the correct amount of child support to be awarded. A written finding or specific finding on the record that the application of the guidelines would be unjust or inappropriate in a particular case, as determined under criteria established by the State, shall be sufficient to rebut the presumption in that case.
(c) Technical assistance to States; State to furnish Secretary with copies
The Secretary shall furnish technical assistance to the States for establishing the guidelines, and each State shall furnish the Secretary with copies of its guidelines.
(Aug. 14, 1935, ch. 531, title IV, §467, as added Pub. L. 98–378, §18(a), Aug. 16, 1984, 98 Stat. 1321; amended Pub. L. 100–485, title I, §103(a), (b), Oct. 13, 1988, 102 Stat. 2346.)
Editorial Notes
Amendments
1988—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 100–485, §103(b), inserted ", and shall be reviewed at least once every 4 years to ensure that their application results in the determination of appropriate child support award amounts" before period at end.
Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 100–485, §103(a), designated existing provisions as par. (1), struck out ", but need not be binding upon such judges or other officials" after "within such State", and added par. (2).
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 1988 Amendment
Amendment by Pub. L. 100–485 effective one year after Oct. 13, 1988, see section 103(f) of Pub. L. 100–485, set out as a note under section 666 of this title.
Effective Date
Pub. L. 98–378, §18(b), Aug. 16, 1984, 98 Stat. 1322, provided that: "The amendment made by subsection (a) [enacting this section] shall become effective on October 1, 1987."
Study of Child-Rearing Costs
Pub. L. 100–485, title I, §128, Oct. 13, 1988, 102 Stat. 2356, directed Secretary of Health and Human Services, by grant or contract, to conduct a study of patterns of expenditures on children in 2-parent families, in single-parent families following divorce or separation, and in single-parent families in which parents were never married, giving particular attention to the relative standards of living in households in which both parents and all of the children do not live together, and submit to Congress no later than 2 years after Oct. 13, 1988, a full and complete report of results of such study, including recommendations for legislative, administrative, and other actions.
§668. Encouragement of States to adopt civil procedure for establishing paternity in contested cases
In the administration of the child support enforcement program under this part, each State is encouraged to establish and implement a civil procedure for establishing paternity in contested cases.
(Aug. 14, 1935, ch. 531, title IV, §468, as added Pub. L. 100–485, title I, §111(d), Oct. 13, 1988, 102 Stat. 2350; amended Pub. L. 104–193, title III, §331(c), Aug. 22, 1996, 110 Stat. 2230.)
Editorial Notes
Amendments
1996—Pub. L. 104–193 struck out "a simple civil process for voluntarily acknowledging paternity and" after "implement".
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 1996 Amendment
For effective date of amendment by Pub. L. 104–193, see section 395(a)–(c) of Pub. L. 104–193, set out as a note under section 654 of this title.
§669. Collection and reporting of child support enforcement data
(a) In general
With respect to each type of service described in subsection (b), the Secretary shall collect and maintain up-to-date statistics, by State, and on a fiscal year basis, on—
(1) the number of cases in the caseload of the State agency administering the plan approved under this part in which the service is needed; and
(2) the number of such cases in which the service has actually been provided.
(b) Types of services
The statistics required by subsection (a) shall be separately stated with respect to paternity establishment services and child support obligation establishment services.
(c) Types of service recipients
The statistics required by subsection (a) shall be separately stated with respect to—
(1) recipients of assistance under a State program funded under part A or of payments or services under a State plan approved under part E; and
(2) individuals who are not such recipients.
(d) Rule of interpretation
For purposes of subsection (a)(2), a service has actually been provided when the task described by the service has been accomplished.
(Aug. 14, 1935, ch. 531, title IV, §469, as added Pub. L. 100–485, title I, §129, Oct. 13, 1988, 102 Stat. 2356; amended Pub. L. 100–647, title VIII, §8105(6), Nov. 10, 1988, 102 Stat. 3797; Pub. L. 104–193, title I, §108(c)(16), title III, §395(d)(2)(E), Aug. 22, 1996, 110 Stat. 2166, 2260; Pub. L. 105–200, title IV, §407(a), July 16, 1998, 112 Stat. 672.)
Editorial Notes
Amendments
1998—Pub. L. 105–200 reenacted section catchline without change, added subsecs. (a) to (c), redesignated former subsec. (c) as (d) and inserted heading, and struck out former subsec. (a) relating to statistics on need for and actual provision of services and subsec. (b) relating to types of services.
1996—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 104–193, §108(c)(16), substituted "assistance under State programs funded under part A of this subchapter and for families not receiving such assistance)" for "aid under plans approved under part A of this subchapter and for families not receiving such aid)".
Subsec. (b)(2), (4). Pub. L. 104–193, §395(d)(2)(E), substituted "a noncustodial parent" for "an absent parent".
1988—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 100–647 made technical amendment to references to part A of this subchapter and to this part involving underlying provisions of original act and requiring no change in text.
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 1998 Amendment
Amendment by Pub. L. 105–200 applicable to information maintained with respect to fiscal year 1995 or any succeeding fiscal year, see section 407(c) of Pub. L. 105–200, set out as a note under section 652 of this title.
Effective Date of 1996 Amendment
Amendment by section 108(c)(16) of Pub. L. 104–193 effective July 1, 1997, with transition rules relating to State options to accelerate such date, rules relating to claims, actions, and proceedings commenced before such date, rules relating to closing out of accounts for terminated or substantially modified programs and continuance in office of Assistant Secretary for Family Support, and provisions relating to termination of entitlement under AFDC program, see section 116 of Pub. L. 104–193, as amended, set out as an Effective Date note under section 601 of this title.
For effective date of amendment by section 395(d)(2)(E) of Pub. L. 104–193, see section 395(a)–(c) of Pub. L. 104–193, set out as a note under section 654 of this title.
Effective Date of 1988 Amendment
Pub. L. 100–647, title VIII, §8105, Nov. 10, 1988, 102 Stat. 3797, provided that the amendment made by that section is effective on date of enactment of Family Support Act of 1988, Pub. L. 100–485, which was approved Oct. 13, 1988.
§669a. Nonliability for financial institutions providing financial records to State child support enforcement agencies in child support cases
(a) In general
Notwithstanding any other provision of Federal or State law, a financial institution shall not be liable under any Federal or State law to any person for disclosing any financial record of an individual to a State child support enforcement agency attempting to establish, modify, or enforce a child support obligation of such individual, or for disclosing any such record to the Federal Parent Locator Service pursuant to section 666(a)(17)(A) of this title.
(b) Prohibition of disclosure of financial record obtained by State child support enforcement agency
A State child support enforcement agency which obtains a financial record of an individual from a financial institution pursuant to subsection (a) may disclose such financial record only for the purpose of, and to the extent necessary in, establishing, modifying, or enforcing a child support obligation of such individual.
(c) Civil damages for unauthorized disclosure
(1) Disclosure by State officer or employee
If any person knowingly, or by reason of negligence, discloses a financial record of an individual in violation of subsection (b), such individual may bring a civil action for damages against such person in a district court of the United States.
(2) No liability for good faith but erroneous interpretation
No liability shall arise under this subsection with respect to any disclosure which results from a good faith, but erroneous, interpretation of subsection (b).
(3) Damages
In any action brought under paragraph (1), upon a finding of liability on the part of the defendant, the defendant shall be liable to the plaintiff in an amount equal to the sum of—
(A) the greater of—
(i) $1,000 for each act of unauthorized disclosure of a financial record with respect to which such defendant is found liable; or
(ii) the sum of—
(I) the actual damages sustained by the plaintiff as a result of such unauthorized disclosure; plus
(II) in the case of a willful disclosure or a disclosure which is the result of gross negligence, punitive damages; plus
(B) the costs (including attorney's fees) of the action.
(d) Definitions
For purposes of this section—
(1) Financial institution
The term "financial institution" means—
(A) a depository institution, as defined in section 1813(c) of title 12;
(B) an institution-affiliated party, as defined in section 1813(u) of title 12;
(C) any Federal credit union or State credit union, as defined in section 1752 of title 12, including an institution-affiliated party of such a credit union, as defined in section 1786(r) of title 12; and
(D) any benefit association, insurance company, safe deposit company, money-market mutual fund, or similar entity authorized to do business in the State.
(2) Financial record
The term "financial record" has the meaning given such term in section 3401 of title 12.
(Aug. 14, 1935, ch. 531, title IV, §469A, as added Pub. L. 104–193, title III, §353, Aug. 22, 1996, 110 Stat. 2240; amended Pub. L. 105–200, title IV, §406(c), July 16, 1998, 112 Stat. 672.)
Editorial Notes
Amendments
1998—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 105–200 inserted ", or for disclosing any such record to the Federal Parent Locator Service pursuant to section 666(a)(17)(A) of this title" before period at end.
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date
For effective date of section, see section 395(a)–(c) of Pub. L. 104–193, set out as an Effective Date of 1996 Amendment note under section 654 of this title.
§669b. Grants to States for access and visitation programs
(a) In general
The Administration for Children and Families shall make grants under this section to enable States to establish and administer programs to support and facilitate noncustodial parents' access to and visitation of their children, by means of activities including mediation (both voluntary and mandatory), counseling, education, development of parenting plans, visitation enforcement (including monitoring, supervision and neutral drop-off and pickup), and development of guidelines for visitation and alternative custody arrangements.
(b) Amount of grant
The amount of the grant to be made to a State under this section for a fiscal year shall be an amount equal to the lesser of—
(1) 90 percent of State expenditures during the fiscal year for activities described in subsection (a); or
(2) the allotment of the State under subsection (c) for the fiscal year.
(c) Allotments to States
(1) In general
The allotment of a State for a fiscal year is the amount that bears the same ratio to $10,000,000 for grants under this section for the fiscal year as the number of children in the State living with only 1 biological parent bears to the total number of such children in all States.
(2) Minimum allotment
The Administration for Children and Families shall adjust allotments to States under paragraph (1) as necessary to ensure that no State is allotted less than—
(A) $50,000 for fiscal year 1997 or 1998; or
(B) $100,000 for any succeeding fiscal year.
(d) No supplantation of State expenditures for similar activities
A State to which a grant is made under this section may not use the grant to supplant expenditures by the State for activities specified in subsection (a), but shall use the grant to supplement such expenditures at a level at least equal to the level of such expenditures for fiscal year 1995.
(e) State administration
Each State to which a grant is made under this section—
(1) may administer State programs funded with the grant, directly or through grants to or contracts with courts, local public agencies, or nonprofit private entities;
(2) shall not be required to operate such programs on a statewide basis; and
(3) shall monitor, evaluate, and report on such programs in accordance with regulations prescribed by the Secretary.
(Aug. 14, 1935, ch. 531, title IV, §469B, as added Pub. L. 104–193, title III, §391, Aug. 22, 1996, 110 Stat. 2258.)
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date
For effective date of section, see section 395(a)–(c) of Pub. L. 104–193, set out as an Effective Date of 1996 Amendment note under section 654 of this title.