Text Messaging as a Form of Child Support Enforcement

In October, 2014 CDS was told a study was conducted to determine most effective methods of collecting child support from those willfully not paying. In late 2014 a new enforcement tactic was implemented. As an alternative to suspending drivers licenses for willful nonpayment (among other enforcement actions) text messages are being sent by CSEA to obligors as reminders to pay their child support payments. As the project was so new effectiveness could not at that time be determined.

CDS Asked:  What was the cost for the research/study that resulted in text message procedure as an enforcement tactic?

Answer: Cost to Cuyahoga County = $-0- 

Answer was provided by Tom Lempke, Manager Office of Child Support Services Cuyahoga Job and Family Services - 12/05/2014