Program allows parents to ‘Get Back on the Road Again’

 NEVADA CITY – The Sierra Nevada Regional Department of Child Support Services is offering parents who have had their driver license suspended for non-payment of child support an opportunity to get it restored.

“We want to assist the parent who may be having a tough time financially but wants to do the right thing for his or her children,” said Tex Ritter, Director of the Sierra Nevada Office.

 With about 4,000 cases, the Sierra Nevada Office has distributed $6.6 million in child support to parents from July 2008 through May 2009

 The “Get Back on the Road Again” public awareness program targets parents who have had their license suspended because they did not meet their full child support obligations. The program is available to parents with child support cases in all California counties.

  During the month of August, the Department of Child Support Services will release a driver license when the parent who is paying support meets the following conditions:

· Makes a payment equal to one month of their child support obligation;

· Makes an additional payment of a least $25 toward arrears;

· Provides his or her current employment status and if applicable provides information regarding his or her current financial situation.

 Evaluations will be done on a case-by-case basis, according to the agency.

 Under a 1996 California law, noncustodial parents who do not pay their child support may have their driver license suspended until they bring their payments current. The law also impacts business and professional licenses issued by the State of California such as licenses held by doctors, lawyers, contractors, cosmetologists, barbers, architects, mortuary directors and many others.

 California’s Child Support Services Program works with parents – custodial and noncustodial – and guardians to ensure children and families receive court-ordered financial and medical support. Child support services are available to the general public through a network of 52 county and regional child support agencies.

 Parents interested in participating in the “Get Back on the Road Again” program should visit the California Department of Child Support Services (DCSS) Web site at  www.childsup.ca.gov  for specific dates and locations. You may also call toll free 1 (866) 901-3212.