According to news reports a new law in Texas requires convicted drunk drivers to pay child support if they kill a child’s parent or guardian.
The law, which went into effect Friday, says those convicted of intoxication manslaughter must pay restitution.
The offender will be expected to make those payments until the child is 18 or until the child graduates from high school, “whichever is later,” the legislation says.
The amount of child support depends on multiple factors, including the child's educational needs, medical needs and any reasonable child care costs. The standard of living that the child is used to is also considered.
Anyone who is unable to make payments due to incarceration may be eligible for a payment plan.
I can see both advantages and disadvantages of such a law in the UK.
Thoughts?