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Governor Jennifer M. Granholm, flanked by Family Independence Agency (FIA) Director Nannette M. Bowler and Michigan Attorney General Mike Cox, today announced a new interagency agreement to improve child support collection in Michigan.

“This agreement is about working together to protect children,” Granholm said.  “We’ve got a great team already committed to making sure those who are required to pay, and those who can pay, do so.  This new agreement expands our current efforts to involve the resources of the Attorney General’s Office.”

Under terms of the agreement, FIA will continue to manage Michigan’s Child Support Enforcement System with partners throughout the state, such as Friends of the Court and prosecuting attorneys.  The Attorney General will be responsible for felony, non-support prosecution and legal representation in actions involving asset seizures. 

During Fiscal Year 2002, the state collected and paid out $1.45 billion in support to Michigan families, of approximately $20 billion collected nationally.  The Attorney General has pledged to increase collections from delinquent parents.

“I look forward to the enthusiasm the Attorney General's staff will bring to our child support team,” said Director Bowler.  “The more tools the state has at its disposal, the better off children and families will be.”

“I am grateful for the Governor’s support of my top initiative:  tracking down deadbeat parents who refuse to pay their child support,” Cox said.  “This new federal funding for the Attorney Genera’s office will have a huge impact on the money we are able to collect for the 650,000 kids who wake up everyday in Michigan without the support they deserve.”

For more information, consult the FIA or Attorney General Websites at www.michigan.gov/fia or www.michigan.gov/ag.