A child-support bill tied to drivers' licenses fails

A bill that would have suspended the drivers' licenses of parents who can afford to pay child support but refuse to do so died in the Senate on Tuesday.

House Bill 83 failed to receive the majority it needed to pass after Senate President John Valentine, R-Orem, voted against the bill to end it with a 14-14 tie.

The bill passed 45-16 in the House, but senators had concerns about revoking the driving privileges of those not paying child support because they weren't being allowed to see their children.

Sen. Carlene Walker, R-Salt Lake City, said courts have ruled that nonpayment of child support is not permissible just because visitation is being refused.

"The fact of the matter is the ones we're talking about are people who are thumbing their noses at the court. They're just refusing to pay. This is an appropriate way to get their attention. This is a highly effective way to get their attention and get them into compliance," Walker said.

But Sen. Michael Waddoups, R-West Jordan, said the bill goes too far even if the Legislature can't legally tie visitation and child support together. Waddoups called the bill another form of mandatory minimum sentencing. The bill would have allowed a temporary driver's license for parents who need a driver's license for employment, school or child visitation.