HB 2462-S2 - DIGEST
(AS OF HOUSE 2ND READING 3/07/06)

Finds that federal law requires the states to periodically review and update their child support schedule. Accurate and consistent reporting of the terms of child support orders entered by the courts or administrative agencies in Washington state is necessary in order to accomplish a review of the child support schedule. In addition, a process for review of the schedule should be established to ensure the integrity of any reviews undertaken to comply with federal law.

Provides that, beginning in 2010 and every four years thereafter, the division of child support shall convene a work group to review the child support guidelines and the child support review report prepared under this act and determine if the application of the child support guidelines results in appropriate support orders.

Provides that, by October 1, 2010, and every four years thereafter, the work group shall report its findings and recommendations to the legislature, including recommendations for legislative action, if necessary.

Requires that, beginning in 2010 and every four years thereafter, the joint legislative audit and review committee subject to the committee's approval, or other entity designated by the legislature, shall: (1) Review and analyze data collected from the order summary report, the recommendations of the previous child support work group, the current child support guidelines, and other relevant research and data regarding the cost of child rearing, as well as research and data on the application of, and deviations from, the child support guidelines in order to perform the required quadrennial review of the Washington state child support guidelines under RCW 26.19.025; and

(2) Prepare a report to the legislature no later than July 1, 2010, and every four years thereafter, on the application of the current child support guidelines, and on the recommendations of the prior work group.

Provides that, by April 1, 2006, the division of child support shall convene a work group to examine the current laws, administrative rules, and practices regarding child support.

Declares the objective of the work group shall be to continue the work of the 2005 child support guidelines work group, and produce findings and recommendations to the legislature, including recommendations for legislative action, by December 1, 2006.