"Speak Out" is an expression of opinion from the Editorial Board of WBTV, and is presented by General Manager, Nick Simonette.
When a parent is ordered by the court to pay child support and continuously fails to do so, he or she is referred to as a "deadbeat."
The court makes child support rulings for a reason. Giving life to a child is a responsibility no one should ignore. Those who create the mouths must feed them.
For many of us, it's hard to imagine walking away from your own child. Taking off before a child is old enough to take care of him or herself is a crime. It's also a form of abuse.
Not paying child support is not okay. Deadbeats -- get involved. We're not talking just with money. See if your child is eating well. Check on whether he has health insurance. Know what her report card shows.
Now -- during times when more and more people are in need of more and more support -- Now is the time to make sure you're taking responsibility for your own child's well-being and future. Now is time to step up to the plate and be accountable.
Each deadbeat parent situation is unique. Take your own and try to fix it. Don't make kids pay in untold sacrifices because his or her parent refuses to accept responsibility.
Because WBTV is "On Your Side," we encourage everyone to "Speak Out" - tell us what YOU think. SpeakOut@wbtv.com.
