Rep. Conroy Files Bill to Strengthen Child Support Laws

VILLA PARK, Ill. –State Rep. Deb Conroy (D-Villa Park) has filed HB 5641 a bill that creates felony criminal penalties for those that are delinquent in child support payments and financially able to make payments.

“Illinois is one of the few states in our region that does not press felony criminal charges on those that are delinquent with their child support payment,” Conroy said. “It is imperative that custodial parents are receiving the financial support that they need for the well-being of their children.”

Deb Emerson, a resident of DuPage County, brought Illinois’ lack of punishment for serial delinquent child-support pay to Rep. Conroy’s attention. Neighboring states Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Ohio, and Wisconsin all enforce felony criminal penalties in all or certain circumstances. HB 5641 is currently awaiting a vote in the House Judiciary Committee.

“Parents depend on these payments to raise their children,” Emerson said. “This is an issue that I am passionate about, as I have been directly impacted by it. I have spent the last 15 years trying to recoup payments. I am hopeful that Illinois will stand for justice and pass this bill into law to help children throughout the state.”

For more information please contact Conroy’s constituent services office at (630) 415-3520 or RepDebConroy@gmail.com.