MichiganRecipients could face penalties for knowingly naming a false biological parent
Michigan assistance recipients who knowingly give the department false information about a child's biological parent could face jail or a fine if both bills become law.
What it does
A recipient who knowingly gives the department false information about a child's biological parent could face up to one year in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, or both. The bill also depends on Senate Bill 1188 becoming law.
Argument forThe penalty could discourage recipients from knowingly telling the department that someone is a child's biological parent when they know that person is not.
Argument againstRecipients could face jail or a fine for knowingly giving false parent information, adding criminal punishment to the consequences they may already face.
More detail
A recipient who knowingly identifies someone as a child's biological parent when that person is not the parent would commit a misdemeanor. This applies when a recipient gives the department information or a document identifying someone as a child's biological parent. The recipient must know that the person is not the child's biological parent. The criminal penalty could be imposed in addition to a penalty for another crime arising from the same conduct. The bill would take effect only if Senate Bill 1188 is enacted into law. If enacted along with Senate Bill 1188, this bill would take effect 90 days after enactment.
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Where it stands
- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House
- To Governor
- Became Law
Looking ahead
No hearings or votes scheduled.
History
- 2026
- Oct 1REFERRED TO COMMITTEE ON CIVIL RIGHTS, JUDICIARY, AND PUBLIC SAFETYLatest
- Oct 1INTRODUCED BY SENATOR JIM RUNESTADIntroduced
Criminal Justice