Early Support and Parental Responsibility Act
The Early Support and Parental Responsibility Act ensures every child in Arkansas receives support from both parents—starting at birth. By creating early child support agreements, prioritizing mediation over litigation, and enforcing obligations fairly, it promotes responsibility, reduces dependency on public assistance, and protects taxpayers. Parents who can pay will, and those facing hardship are treated with compassion and due process. Protecting our children requires us to keep responsibility where it belongs—with parents, not the state. This is a commonsense way to reduce poverty and strengthen families.
Draft legislation supported by Joshua Irby, candidate for State Senate District 16. Not yet introduced.
Every proposal I introduce answers one central question:
Will this strengthen or weaken the long-term health and integrity of the State of Arkansas — and of the Republic?
Here’s where this legislation stands:
Does this legislation serve a clear and necessary purpose?
Yes. This act addresses a pressing need to reduce child poverty, encourage early and equitable parental involvement, and prevent public assistance dependency. By promoting timely and cooperative support arrangements beginning at birth, it ensures both parents share responsibility for the well-being of their child from day one.
Does it align with constitutional principles and the rule of law?
Yes. The act incorporates strong due process safeguards, avoids government overreach, and upholds the rights of both parents. It carefully balances enforcement with fairness, ensuring that no parent is penalized without notice, appeal, or the opportunity to demonstrate economic hardship.
Does it respect taxpayer dollars and avoid new burdens?
Yes. By reducing long-term reliance on public assistance through early financial responsibility, the act protects state resources. It creates sustainable enforcement mechanisms without imposing new taxes or unfunded mandates, and it empowers families to resolve support arrangements voluntarily before public costs arise.
Will it improve civic health and strengthen our social fabric?
Yes. By emphasizing parental responsibility, cooperation, and family-centered mediation, the act supports healthier child outcomes and reduces adversarial conflict. It reinforces a culture of shared obligation and mutual respect—vital foundations for any stable and free society.
Does it offer long-term value and strengthen the Republic?
Yes. Ensuring that every child has early, consistent support from both parents strengthens family units, reduces intergenerational poverty, and affirms the principle that rights must be accompanied by responsibilities. It models a thoughtful, rights-respecting approach to reform that other states could follow.
Final Verdict:
This legislation strengthens
the long-term health and integrity
of Arkansas — and the Republic.
Why it matters:
The Early Support and Parental Responsibility Act provides a principled, proactive framework for ensuring children receive the support they deserve while protecting parental rights and due process. It promotes dignity, stability, and shared accountability—values that lie at the heart of a healthy, self-governing society.