Growing up, I received court-ordered minimum child support until my 18th birthday and nothing more from my biological father who was, and continues to be, financially capable of providing much more support. Unfortunately, the mere existence of a relationship that results in the creation of children does not automatically make a person a good parent. What defines true parenthood is standing up and taking responsibility for one's children and ensuring their well-being.

This personal experience has driven me to initiate a petition for a new state law in Illinois. In 2026, I am pushing for legislation that mandates a minimum child support payment of $994 per month, equivalent to the current SSI rate, or alternatively, a 50% split of expenses related to housing, medical, and education costs. This reform prioritizes the safety and well-being of children, ensuring they receive the necessary financial support for a stable and nurturing environment.

Many children and their custodial parents are struggling to meet basic needs due to inadequate child support payments. This inadequacy can hamper a child’s potential, limiting their access to essential resources and opportunities. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, only about 43.5% of custodial parents who were supposed to receive full child support payments actually received the amount awarded to them, and the overall average amount received was only 62.4% of the entitlement. This is not only unacceptable but detrimental to the future of our children.

By setting a baseline of $994 monthly or a 50% shared expense, this law would address the disparities caused by low child support payments and take the first step towards ensuring all children in Illinois have access to their basic rights of safety, education, and health care. Furthermore, it holds non-custodial parents accountable, ensuring that they contribute fairly to the upbringing of their children.

Passing this law would make significant strides towards fostering a fairer system for all families involved, and it emphasizes the importance of shared responsibilities in raising healthy and well-supported children. It is a tangible initiative for enhancing the lives of many within the state and creating a promising future for all children.

By signing this petition, you support this crucial change and advocate for building a brighter, fairer future for children in Illinois. Let’s urge our lawmakers to enact this policy and lead by example in ensuring responsible parenting for the welfare of our next generations.