Niagara Leader

Congresswoman Claudia Tenney and Senator Kevin Cramer have reintroduced the Unborn Child Support Act, a legislative proposal designed to provide financial support to pregnant women. The bill allows expectant mothers to receive retroactive child support payments during pregnancy. It aims to address the needs of mothers by enabling them to opt-in for prenatal payments through the court system.

The legislation mandates that judges consult with mothers on payment plans, granting them discretion over whether child support will be awarded retroactively. Additionally, it stipulates that paternity tests are at the mother's discretion and should not be conducted if they pose a risk to the child.

"By enabling child support to begin at conception, we empower mothers with financial assistance while respecting their freedom to make the best choices for themselves and their unborn children," stated Congresswoman Tenney. She emphasized that the act highlights the value of life from early pregnancy and provides crucial support for mothers who choose prenatal child support.

Senator Cramer expressed his belief in supporting mothers from conception: "I believe life begins at conception and therefore, our duty to care for mothers also begins at conception." He added that the bill empowers moms by placing financial responsibility on fathers for their unborn children.