Manchester's Bill to Support Third-Party Child Caretakers Passes House

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Susan Manchester today announced the Ohio House of Representatives has approved House Bill 83, her bipartisan legislation that revises Ohio’s child support laws regarding third-party caretakers.

Current law in Ohio is set up for a child support order between two parents, with one parent being the primary custodian and the other parent paying child support. 

However, Manchester noted that the opioid crisis has exacerbated situations in which a third-party caretaker, such as a grandparent, provides primary care for a child. Many of these individuals find themselves caring for a child on limited resources.

“Child support should follow the child,” said Manchester. “House Bill 83 ensure these funds can reach the individual who is providing primary care for that child.”

H.B. 83 creates a consistent process across the state for Child Support Enforcement Agencies (CSEAs) to address the potential establishment or redirection of support for caretakers using processes already in place for parents. The legislation also provides notice and an opportunity for both parents and the third-party caretaker to be heard prior to any changes to the child support order.

“This bill upholds due process while protecting the best interests of Ohio’s children by creating a consistent path for these caretakers to obtain needed services from child support enforcement agencies,” added Manchester.

The measure now advances to the Senate for consideration.