Texas HB4492 creates a criminal offense for biological fathers who fail to pay child support for six months or more for children born to mothers.

Texas HB4492 amends the Family Code to establish a criminal offense for biological fathers who fail to pay child support for six months or longer for children born to mothers who were unable to access or receive abortion services during the pregnancy. The offense is a Class B misdemeanor with a minimum 180-day confinement, escalating to a Class A misdemeanor or state jail felony for repeat offenders. Courts may reduce sentences for those who consent to a voluntary vasectomy. The law applies only to child support arrearages accruing after the effective date of September 1, 2025.

Texas HB4492 creates a criminal offense for biological fathers who fail to pay child support for six months or more for children born to mothers.

Texas HB4492 amends the Family Code to establish a criminal offense for biological fathers who fail to pay child support for six months or longer for children born to mothers who were unable to access or receive abortion services during the pregnancy. The offense is a Class B misdemeanor with a minimum 180-day confinement, escalating to a Class A misdemeanor or state jail felony for repeat offenders. Courts may reduce sentences for those who consent to a voluntary vasectomy. The law applies only to child support arrearages accruing after the effective date of September 1, 2025.