MS HB1083

Declares as public policy that children are adversely affected when parents with outstanding child support obligations divert financial support to gaming, and gaming winnings should be applied to child support obligations.

Requires gaming licensees to withhold gaming winnings and progressive slot machine annuities (beginning with second payment) from parents with child support arrearages and forward deducted amounts to Department of Human Services within 7 days.

Allows gaming licensees to deduct up to $35.00 per payment as an administrative fee for child support withholding procedures.

Establishes a 20-day period for Department of Human Services to release encumbered game winnings to the obligee, or until child support dispute is resolved if obligor files petition before deadline; limits challenge grounds to identity mistakes or arrearage amount errors.

Directs Mississippi Gaming Commission to prescribe procedures for child support collection from gaming winnings and slot machine annuities, with implementation required by September 1, 2023; effective July 1, 2023.