The Trump administration is tightening enforcement of a 1996 law allowing the State Department to revoke passports for unpaid child support.
Parents who owe significant back payments will now face passport suspension as a collection measure under the policy shift.
The move targets those with overdue child support exceeding a certain threshold, though the exact amount has not been disclosed.
Authorities plan to identify delinquent parents through existing data systems and notify them before any revocation action.
The State Department will coordinate with state child support agencies to track unpaid obligations and enforce the policy.
Critics argue the tactic could disproportionately affect low-income parents, making it harder for them to work across borders.
Supporters contend the crackdown provides a powerful incentive for parents to meet their financial responsibilities.
The 1996 law had been enforced unevenly, with the new directive aiming for consistent application nationwide.
Passport revocation remains an option rather than an automatic penalty, giving parents a chance to pay before losing travel documents.
The policy reinforces the government’s commitment to collecting child support through all available legal means.
