
Leading through engagement is one of my guiding principles, and I often talk about it through my 3Ps: People, Process, and Performance. One thing I’ve learned while engaging parents and partners in the child support program is first impressions matter. That’s why I’m happy to announce that we’ve changed the name of the Office of Child Support Enforcement to Office of Child Support Services, reflecting our program’s commitment to serve and support the whole family.
Evolution of the program
The child support program has changed a lot over 48 years. It started out recovering state public assistance costs and has evolved to focusing on family support. In addition to services funded directly by the child support program, we also support states and tribes by funding services like employment programs, fatherhood initiatives, demonstration grants, reentry partnerships, and other family-centered efforts. This name change emphasizes the national child support program’s evolution, innovation, modernization, and recognition of the needs of today’s families.
We also hope this change will encourage more participation in the program. The word "enforcement" can evoke fear. Noncustodial parents often fear potential incarceration and the stigma and shame associated with enforcement remedies. The name change demonstrates the program is adopting a more inclusive, family-centered, and service-oriented model. In fact, many state child support programs have already removed enforcement from their name.
Ensuring support for children
We’ll continue offering a vast range of services, including enforcement remedies, and partnering with child support agencies and others to encourage parental responsibility so children receive reliable support from both parents.
To stay up to date with the Office of Child Support Services, sign up for the Child Support Report newsletter.

Tanguler Gray, Commissioner
This blog gives the commissioner a forum to communicate directly with child support professionals and other partners about relevant topics.