FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Tuesday, March 30, 2004
Contact: Chris Downing
ACF Press Office (202) 401-9215
HHS ISSUES FINAL RULE ON FUNDING TRIBAL CHILD SUPPORT ENFORCEMENT PROGRAMS
The Administration for Children and Families announced today the publication of a new regulation to implement direct child support enforcement program funding to federally recognized Indian tribes and tribal organizations. The regulations carry out provisions of the 1996 welfare reform law as amended by the Balanced Budget Act of 1997, which for the first time provided the option of direct funding of tribal child support enforcement programs.
Being published today is the final rule, effective immediately, applying to Indian tribes and tribal organizations who wish to apply for funding to operate a comprehensive child support enforcement program. Tribes have been able to apply for direct federal funding under interim final rules since August 2000.
"The action we are taking demonstrates our commitment to providing resources Tribes need to develop programs that effectively ensure the financial and emotional support of American Indian and Alaskan Native children,” said Secretary Thompson. “Though it is their choice, we anticipate a substantial number of Tribes will avail themselves of this funding opportunity.”
Under the regulation, HHS can make direct payments for administrative expenses to Tribes, tribal organizations and Alaskan Native villages that demonstrate their capacity to operate a child support enforcement program. To receive funding, Tribes have to meet the objectives of the program, including establishment of paternity; modification and enforcement of support orders; collection and distribution of support; and location of non-custodial parents. Initially, the federal government will pay 90 percent of reasonable and necessary costs of the programs. Tribes and tribal organizations will be required to make a contribution of 10 percent.
"This final regulation reflects the input of the Tribal community garnered through extensive consultation,” said Assistant Secretary for Families and Children Dr. Wade A. Horn. “It is a product of the serious, productive relationship we enjoy with the Tribes.”
Nine tribes currently receive direct federal funding. These Tribes are handling over 21,000 cases.
For more information on child support enforcement, go to: www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/cse.
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