MO SB256

Department of Social Services must establish a pilot program allowing eligible noncustodial parents to reduce state debt by up to $2,000 based on hours of participation

Program goals include empowering noncustodial parents to achieve gainful employment, encouraging engagement with their children, and promoting financial responsibility

Participants demonstrating good faith efforts are protected from criminal nonsupport prosecution during the program and for one year after completion

Program cannot change monthly child support obligations or compromise any arrears owed to the custodial parent or spousal support arrears

Department must submit a report to the General Assembly one year after implementation with program outcomes; provisions expire August 28, 2018