MI HB5472

Establishes an alternative contempt track docket for child support payers who have difficulty making payments due to documented medical conditions, psychological disorders, substance use disorder, illiteracy, homelessness, temporary curable conditions, or unemployment lasting longer than 27 weeks.

Requires court approval and consent of the payer to place a case on the alternative contempt track, with the payer subject to probation for up to one year and a court-approved plan to address underlying conditions.

Allows the court to direct sheriff custody for up to 45 days for plan violations and jail commitment up to 10 days for willful non-compliance, while requiring the payer to attend scheduled review hearings.

Permits the court to modify or stay the current support order based on the payer's ability during the alternative contempt track period and to discharge arrears owed to the state or payee upon successful plan completion with appropriate consent.

Requires each court using an alternative contempt track to submit a plan for approval by the state court administrative office; effective date March 17, 2015.