The Department of Human Services’ Office of Child Support has reported that in the first half of fiscal year 2005 the Michigan Title IV-D child support program distributed over $680 million. An additional $17.1 million was distributed to families in other states whose child support case is under the jurisdiction of a Michigan court.

"The child support program continues to work for Michigan families," said Marilyn Stephen, Director of the Office of Child Support. "Getting money to families effectively is the number one priority for the prosecutors, friends of the court and OCS."

In the first six months, $630 million was paid to families in Michigan, $11 million was distributed to cover medical costs for children and $39 million was collected to reimburse taxpayers for public assistance provided to families. Within 24 hours of receipt over 90% of child support payments are sent to families. The rest is held as required by law or distributed once addresses for custodial parents can be identified.

"The focus on collecting and distributing child support will remain intense," said Marianne Udow, Director of the Department of Human Services, "Michigan families rely on our commitment to ensuring they receive the support needed to raise their children."