The current Child Support Act inadequately addresses the struggles of fathers like myself, striving for equal rights and our children's affection. Regardless of our efforts, we constantly find ourselves stuck in a system where mothers are favored. I am a father of three in Tuscarawas County, Ohio and I, like many other fathers, confront a system that seems overwhelmingly lopsided. Despite the fact that the mother and I were never married, as a man, I face overwhelming challenges just to exercise simple parental rights. 

For countless men in Ohio and beyond, the daily battle for equality isn't just exhausting—it's financially crippling. We are asked to provide significant amounts in child support, funds that are not always used in the best interest of our children. This lack of oversight leaves fathers like me struggling to make ends meet while missing precious moments with our children due to this financial burden. The bias is evident and discriminates against fathers striving to be the best parents we can be.

The Office of Child Support Enforcement's annual data report for FY 2019 shows that while over $32.4 billion plus was collected in child support, there was no information on how these funds were spent, nor assurance that they solely benefited the child (Source: U.S. Department of Health & Human Services). There is a dire need for transparency and equality in our system.

It's high time to reform the Child Support Act. We need action that ensures both parents are treated fairly, and that child support payments are used for the welfare of the child alone. Our children deserve the equal love, care, and financial support of both parents. Join me in this initiative to reform our biased system, so that every parent's contribution is valued equally. Please, sign this petition.