I’m always surprised at how quickly December sneaks up on us! I imagine it’s the same for you, too. I think that’s what happens when you love what you do and are focused on advancing important work.
But amid the busy few weeks to wrap up the year, it’s important to reflect on what you’ve accomplished and chart out a course for the work ahead. I’m extremely proud of the work we’ve done to help children and families. While I can’t note every success, here are a few highlights from the year:
- Changing our name to spotlight our family-centered approach: We changed our name to the Office of Child Support Services to reflect our commitment to serve and support the whole family.
- Supporting programs through proposed regulations: We published NPRMs to eliminate costs for tribal child support programs, support programs during disasters and calamities, and embrace all family structures.
- Supporting tribes: We hosted two tribal consultations to hear from tribal directors on important topics. We also continued human-centered design projects to help streamline the plan amendment process and support outreach for tribes.
- Uplifting fathers: We created a handout of important services for fathers (PDF) to help them develop strong and healthy relationships with their children. We also hosted a Fatherhood Forum with partners to explore ways to collaborate and support families.
- Promoting equity: We awarded a grant to support an equity blueprint for child support. We also implemented strategies in four priority work areas to ensure equitable program outcomes.
- Streamlining international payments: We launched the Central Authority Payment service (CAP) that streamlines outgoing international payments between U.S. states and countries. There are now 42 states sending payments through CAP, and we’ve sent over $2 million to families in Germany. Beginning January 2, 2024, states can start sending payments to the Czech Republic, Portugal, Slovakia, and Sweden through CAP.
Thank you to our child support colleagues and partners across the country who have engaged and collaborated with us to get these items across the finish line. I’m extremely proud of what we’ve accomplished this year, and I know we have more work to do. I look forward to building on our progress as we work together to support families in the new year.
Tanguler Gray, Commissioner
This blog gives the commissioner a forum to communicate directly with child support professionals and other partners about relevant topics. The Commissioner’s Voice is reprinted from the December 2023 Child Support Report newsletter.