Watch CBS News

Child Support Waiver Bill Passes State Senate

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) -- The state Senate has passed a bill modifying a law that allows Maryland prisoners to ask the court to suspend their child support payments.

Lawmakers approved the measure 25-21 Wednesday, allowing child support payments to be altered without any action from a prisoner.

Prisoners can already apply for a waiver because they have no income while in jail.

Opponents say it is unfair to children that criminals are allowed to walk away from support payments while in jail.

Others say that mounting debt of missed payments while incarcerated make it less likely someone will return to paying
regularly once he or she is released.

The bill, which has already been passed by the House of Delegates, now moves to the governor to be signed.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.