Federal Parent Locator Service (FPLS) Bridge Support

DEAR COLLEAGUE LETTER DCL-98-71
DATE : July 31, 1998
TO : All State IV-D Directors
RE : Federal Parent Locator Service (FPLS) Bridge Support

Dear Colleague:

It has come to our attention that due to year 2000 (Y2K) conversion projects and other deadlines, states may not be able to implement the new FPLS record specifications that are Y2K compliant. In an effort to support the states and provide additional services, OCSE is offering an FPLS Bridge.

The function of the bridge is to take the FPLS input files that are in the old format (record length of 335 bytes) and convert the data to the new layout (475 bytes). We will process the data and then generate an error and response file. Before these files are returned to the states, they will be converted to the old format of 462 bytes. The bridge should eliminate the need for states to modify, prior to October 1, 1998, extract and process programs that format the data sent and handle the response and error files.

If your state is interested in utilizing the FPLS Bridge, or if you need additional information, please contact Tony Hardy at (202) 401- 9231 or thardy@acf.hhs.gov. All requests for the bridge must be made by August 14, 1998. If your state does NOT respond by this date, we will expect your data in the new Y2K FPLS format.

Thank you for your continued support in improving the lives and futures of America's children.

Sincerely,

David Gray Ross
Commissioner
Office of Child Support Enforcement

cc: SPLS Contacts
FCR Programmatic Contacts
FCR Technical Contacts
Regional Program Managers