Officials look to update child support rules

BALTIMORE (AP) — Maryland officials are proposing the first increase to recommended child support payments in 20 years.

Under the plan, the amount most noncustodial parents pay would increase, while payments for lowest-income families would slightly decrease. It would mostly affect families with new cases.

Department of Human Resources officials, who oversee the court-ordered child support collection, have tried unsuccessfully in the past to update the guidelines. But they hope state lawmakers will approve it in the upcoming legislative session.

Officials are holding forums on the issue across the state, including one Wednesday night in Charles County.