Bill > HB2562

This bill amends existing Kansas law regarding parentage and child support by modifying how courts can order retroactive child support, which is financial support for a child that is ordered to be paid for a period before the court order was issued. Specifically, the bill allows courts to order retroactive child support up to four years after a child reaches the age of majority, meaning the child is no longer legally considered a minor. The bill also clarifies that when ordering retroactive child support, courts should use the Kansas child support guidelines, which are established rules to determine appropriate child support amounts, and must consider factors such as whether the parent knew of their paternity, if ordering support would cause undue hardship, and if the parent has already provided any support. Furthermore, there is a presumption that limiting retroactive support to four years before the court action began is reasonable, unless the parent knew they were the father and tried to avoid paying support. The bill also requires courts to explain their reasoning if they deny or limit retroactive child support.