By Attorney Roman Knudsvig:
On May 7, 2026, President Donald Trump announced that the United States Department of State would begin enforcing 42 U.S.C. § 652(k), the federal statute authorizing the denial or revocation of passports for individuals owing significant child support arrears.
Federal Law Allows Passport Denial
The statute was enacted as part of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996, which became law when President Bill Clinton signed the legislation on August 22, 1996.
The law authorizes the Secretary of State to refuse to issue a passport to an individual owing more than $2,500 in child support arrears. The same statute also authorizes the Department of State to revoke, restrict, or limit a previously issued passport once an individual is certified as seriously delinquent in child support.
According to the Department of State, a revoked passport generally will not be reinstated until the child support delinquency has been resolved.
What happens if you are outside the United States?
United States citizens currently outside of the country may also be affected. If a passport is revoked while abroad, the individual may need to contact the nearest United States embassy or consulate to apply for a limited-validity passport or emergency travel documents to return to the United States.
Other Consequences of Unpaid Child Support
Passport revocation is only one of several enforcement tools available when child support is not paid. Additional consequences may include:
- Driver’s license suspension or revocation;
- Interception of tax returns;
- Wage garnishment;
- Contempt proceedings;
- Potential jail time.
When to Seek Modification
If your financial circumstances have changed, such as job loss, medical issues, reduced income, or military deployment, ignoring a child support order can quickly lead to serious legal consequences.
Instead, consider seeking a child support modification. Check out our previous blog to see what Courts look at when considering a modification request.
If you are struggling to make payments or believe your current obligation no longer reflects your financial situation, it is important to contact an experienced North Dakota family law attorney as soon as possible. Acting early can help prevent enforcement actions and protect your ability to work, travel, and maintain financial stability.
If you are involved in a custody dispute and have questions about whether your child may be asked to testify, please get in touch with Rosenquist Law Office at (701) 775-0654 or email us at lawinfo@rosenquistlawoffice.com to consult with an experienced family law attorney who can help you understand the process and protect your child from unnecessary stress.
The information contained in this article and on this website is for informational purposes only. This information is not legal advice and should not be relied upon as such.
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