When a parent fails to pay child support, it can have serious consequences. Aside from losing their driving privileges, passport and tax refund, they could also face the suspension of their fishing license.
If you owe unpaid child support, it is important to understand how this could impact your ability to enjoy fishing.
License suspension
Child support is a court-ordered financial contribution that a non-custodial parent must pay to the custodial parent for the care and upbringing of their child. Failure to pay child support can result in various penalties, one of which is the suspension of recreational licenses, such as a fishing license.
The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services says that courts sometimes ask the Game Commission and Fish and Boat Commission to suspend recreational licenses when a parent is significantly delinquent in their child support payments. For example, this can affect parents who are three months behind on support and do not have an income withholding order.
Protecting your license
If you have lost your recreational license, contact your state child support enforcement agency to understand the specific requirements for reinstating your fishing license. Make arrangements to pay off the unpaid child support amount or set up a payment plan to catch up on your arrears. Stay in communication with the enforcement agency and adhere to the terms of any payment plan to avoid further penalties.
By staying informed and taking prompt action to address any delinquencies, you can protect your fishing privileges and demonstrate your commitment to supporting your child’s welfare.
