Montana law to extend child support for disabled children

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — A new law will allow parents of children with disabilities to seek child support after the child turns 18 as long as he or she is financially dependent on their custodial parent who is also their primary caregiver.

The bill , sponsored by Democratic Rep. Mary Caferro, was signed Tuesday by Gov. Steve Bullock. Caferro said 37 states have similar laws.

The bill also allows parents whose child support orders have expired to petition for additional help after the law takes effect on July 1.

A judge must consider the adult child's eligibility for public benefits and services in determining the financial obligation of the noncustodial parent. The support obligation continues until the court finds the adult child is no longer disabled or is no longer financially dependent on the custodial parent.