My name is Eric, and I want to share my story to shed light on an unfair punitive measure that affects many individuals across the United States who are struggling with back child support. In 2023, as my daughter was approaching her 18th birthday, I was arrested for unpaid child support from previous years and spent six days in jail. Shortly after, my driver's license was revoked by the Department of Human Resources (DHR) as a penalty for the outstanding balance.

As a mechanic with 25 years of experience, possessing a driver's license is essential for obtaining a job in my field. Without it, securing employment is incredibly challenging, if not impossible. This punitive action prevents people like me from breaking the cycle of debt by depriving us of the opportunity to work and pay off what we owe.

Child support is a serious obligation, and I fully acknowledge the responsibility to financially support one's children. However, when the child has reached the age of majority the financial obligation to the parent is complete and should no longer have legal standing in the court system. it is counterproductive and unconstitutional to enforce measures that hinder employment opportunities lowering their quality of life.

According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, nearly 12 million adults across the U.S. face driver's license suspensions due to unpaid fines and fees, including back child support. Many of these individuals are in positions similar to mine, trying to find stable employment without the ability to drive, which often pushes them further into financial distress.

We are calling on state legislators to reevaluate the practice of driver's license revocation as a means of penalty for back child support once the child reaches legal adulthood. Instead hold DHR accountable to develope and maintain a connection with both parents in order to inform them of their rights in the case. Example: rights to review and passing important information along, instead of just chasing a paycheck. 

Please join me in urging lawmakers to stop using license revocation as a tool for enforcing back child support payments when the child reaches legal age. Sign this petition to advocate for policies that provide realistic and constructive solutions for parents struggling with past financial obligations so that they can actively support their children and contribute positively to their communities.