The U.S. government is reportedly starting to revoke passports for parents with large unpaid child support balances, with enforcement expected to initially target cases involving more than $100,000 in overdue payments.
Under existing federal law, parents owing more than $2,500 in unpaid child support can already be denied a passport or blocked from renewing one. The renewed enforcement effort has recently gained attention after reports suggested officials plan to begin with the highest unpaid balances first.
The program allows the U.S. State Department to deny passport applications, block renewals, and in some cases revoke existing passports for people identified by state agencies as seriously behind on child support payments.
People impacted could face international travel restrictions until payments are made or repayment arrangements are approved.
The reports have sparked debate online, with some supporting stricter enforcement measures while others question whether revoking passports will actually increase child support payments.
