Bill > HB1441

This bill establishes new reporting requirements and creates an Office of Fatherhood within the Department of Social Services aimed at supporting two-parent families and fathers. The bill mandates annual reports to the General Assembly and Governor starting December 1, 2026, covering multiple areas: actions taken to implement the fourth goal of the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program related to two-parent family formation, interdepartmental coordination to identify policies that impact two-parent families, and an analysis of child support guidelines and their potential negative consequences. The bill also establishes an Office of Fatherhood within the department, led by an assistant director, tasked with promoting father-supportive measures across state and local governments. The office will assess government programs' impact on fatherhood, produce annual reports, and identify barriers to father participation. Additionally, the bill requires the department to partner with organizations to offer grants for programs promoting two-parent family formation, including marriage education, counseling, mediation, and public awareness campaigns. The legislation aims to encourage two-parent family stability by examining and potentially reforming policies that might inadvertently discourage or complicate family maintenance, with a particular focus on supporting fathers and their relationships with children.

Health and Social Services

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB1441&year=2025&code=R