DeKalb County seeks $563K to sustain child support operations amid funding crisis

In a recent meeting of the Georgia State Legislature's Appropriations Committee, officials from DeKalb County presented a critical request for supplemental funding to support their operations under the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act (UIFSA). This federal program is essential for establishing, enforcing, and collecting child support when parents reside in different states or countries. The DeKalb office has been managing these responsibilities for over 25 years, acting on behalf of the state, and is now facing a funding crisis that could jeopardize its ability to provide these vital services.

The county's request totals $563,023 for the remainder of the fiscal year, aimed solely at maintaining its current staff of 19, which is below the federally recommended number of 23. The officials emphasized that without this funding, they would be forced to lay off employees or cease operations entirely, which would violate the state's obligations under its contract with the federal government. This situation has been exacerbated by budget cuts during the COVID-19 pandemic, leaving the office struggling to meet the needs of approximately 4,500 active cases and the 6,000 children they support.

The officials clarified that this funding request is not a DeKalb County initiative but a state obligation, as mandated by the Child Support Performance and Incentive Act of 1998. They highlighted the importance of their specialized staff, many of whom have decades of experience, and warned that losing this expertise would significantly hinder the state's ability to fulfill its responsibilities under UIFSA.

In addition to the immediate funding needs, the officials pointed out that the federal government typically reimburses 66% of the costs associated with these operations. However, they stressed that the full amount must be allocated upfront to ensure the continuity of services, with the state then seeking reimbursement.

The meeting underscored the critical role that the DeKalb office plays in the broader context of child support enforcement in Georgia. With the potential for significant disruptions to services, the outcome of this funding request will have far-reaching implications for families relying on child support across the state. As the legislature considers this request, the focus remains on ensuring that the state meets its obligations and continues to support its most vulnerable residents.