SPD Rejects Cutting Child Support for Teenagers, Proposes Stricter Rules for Payers

Germany's Social Democratic Party (SPD) opposes a plan to cut state child support payments, currently available until age 18, to end at age 16. The party argues for tightening regulations on those obligated to pay child support instead of reducing benefits for young people.

The SPD's stance is outlined in a proposal set for approval by the party's federal executive committee. The party suggests modifying the garnishment exemption limit, which determines the amount debtors must retain for their basic needs after child support is deducted. The goal is to ensure fewer individuals are deemed unable to pay.

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We want to increase pressure on those who are late with payments, expand state capacities for recourse, and make procedures significantly more efficient.

Furthermore, the SPD proposes significantly extending the statute of limitations for recovery claims, deeming the current three-year period insufficient for many cases. The party also aims to address assets, suggesting state restrictions for those with substantial child support debts who register new vehicles, boats, or real estate in their name. They also want child support debts to be reported directly to Schufa, a credit rating agency.

The SPD also calls for stricter criminal penalties. They advocate for removing the "endangerment clause" from Paragraph 170 of the Criminal Code. This clause currently absolves a child support debtor of criminal liability if the other parent or the state averts the child's financial hardship. "We want to increase pressure on those who are late with payments, expand state capacities for recourse, and make procedures significantly more efficient," the SPD resolution states. The party emphasizes that children and adolescents should not be penalized because a parent shirks their responsibility.

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Children and adolescents should not be penalized because a parent shirks their responsibility.