PERAC Memo #33 - 2000: Child Support Enforcement Initiative Update

Child Support Enforcement Initiative Update

Summary

PERAC Memo #2000/33 reports on the success of the DOR/PERAC Child Support Enforcement Initiative, which requires retirement boards to intercept members' retirement allowances and refunds to satisfy delinquent child support obligations under a 1998 amendment to G.L. c. 32. The memo notes that nearly $200,000 was collected statewide in FY2000 through boards' cooperation and commends staff for their efforts. No new action is required—this is an informational update recognizing boards for their ongoing compliance with existing interception procedures.

Full Text

PERAC MEMO #2000/33 M E M O R A N D U M TO: Retirement Boards FROM: Joseph E. Connarton, Executive Director RE: Child Support Enforcement Initiative Update DATE: August 8, 2000 Attached is a copy of a press release issued by Frederick A. Laskey, Commissioner of the Department of Revenue (DOR) announcing that nearly $200,000 in delinquent child support payments have been collected through the combined efforts of DOR, PERAC and the Retirement Boards. In 1998 the Act to Improve the Massachusetts Child Support Enforcement Program was enacted. This statute amended certain sections of G.L. c. 32 to require Retirement Boards to intercept retirement allowances and refunds to satisfy a member’s child support obligation. DOR and PERAC implemented a successful pilot program involving ten retirement systems. The program was implemented for all Boards and in Fiscal Year 2000, ending June 30, 2000, $199,856 was collected as a result of these efforts. The cooperation and assistance provided by the Board Members and Staffs of the Retirement Systems resulted in children receiving the financial support to which they were entitled. You are all to be commended for your efforts.