House Passes DelBene Bill to Strengthen Tribal, State Child Support Services

WASHINGTON, DC - Today, the House of Representatives passed the Strengthening State and Tribal Child Support Enforcement Act (H.R. 7906), bipartisan legislation introduced by Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01) to strengthen state and tribal child support services. The bill was approved as part of the Protecting America's Children by Strengthening Families Act (H.R. 9076) by a bipartisan vote of 405-10.

DelBene's bill would improve child support programs for states and tribal communities by granting them the ability to hire contractors, bringing them in parity with federal agencies. In addition, this bill would also explicitly grant those state and tribal contractors access to individuals' relevant tax data, which federal, state, and local agency employees are already authorized to use. This access will allow tribal child support programs to track and collect unpaid child support and prevent potential disruptions to critical financial support. By allowing these resources, the bill would support millions of families and ensure that children in tribal areas receive the financial assistance they need.

"State and tribal agencies across the country will now be better equipped to collect and manage child support payments effectively," said DelBene. "By leveling the playing field, we are ensuring that all children, including those in tribal communities, receive the financial support they need to thrive. I will keep advocating for the resources necessary to support every family and will continue working to ensure that all children get the assistance they deserve."

The bill now heads to the Senate for consideration.