I wanted to let everyone know that I have recently added something to my petition that will really help a lot of people. I am asking for a government-funded child support assistance program.
First of all, this program is not for the deadbeats and those playing the system. I stand firm that they should be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. This program is for those people who are unemployed or underemployed through no fault of their own due to the poor economy, and have a good support payment history. This program would pay the child support obligation or a portion of it as long as the parent shows proof he/she is actively seeking employment or better employment.
I have asked for this because with all of the layoffs and cutbacks, good hardworking support-paying parents are now worried about how they will pay the support obligation and still take care of their family. If they do not pay support, they could suffer legal consequences. And even if they don't suffer legal consequences, the child support will get way behind and the children are forced to go without that income they rely on. In times like these, that child support could be the difference between the children having food for the week or going hungry. We cannot let hardworking parents and their children suffer from these things they cannot control. These parents want to pay the support. They try their best and still come up short.
Before I start getting letters and e-mail from people who don't agree with this, let me say this: I know that some people abuse any government program. I know that some of those people will slip through the cracks with this program just like the rest of them. I still believe that the pros of this program far outweight the cons. We cannot punish thousands for the irresponsibility of a few hundred.
I also know that this type of program could mean a slight increase in taxes for all of us. Let me just say this: I am not a support-paying parent. If you remember right, I am dealing with one of the deadbeats playing the system. This program would not help me in the slightest. And yet, I would rather pay an extra $5 in taxes each week than see innocent people put in jail and children starving or living on the streets.
If you would like to support my petition, or if you are interested and just want to see the whole petition, send me an e-mail at 79trm@comcast.net Or write to me by mail at 4818 S. Scott Road, Claypool, IN 46510. The petition covers a number of different issues.
If you are having any problems with child support or visitation, let me know. I may already have a plan in my petition that addresses it. Or I can work with you to come up with one. I know there are more problems that need to be addressed. I won't know what they are until someone brings it to my attention. I am trying to help as many people as possible with this. I am also trying to stay fair to everyone.
