House committee recommends child‑support bill making obligation effective at pregnancy test amid debate on genetic testing

Representative Olson moved HB2144 as amended and described the measure as requiring child support to be paid from the moment the mother is expecting rather than after the birth. "It requires child support to be paid from the moment that the mother is expecting rather than after the birth of the child," Olson said, arguing the measure ensures support "as of the date that she became pregnant."

Representative Stahl Hamilton objected in floor comments that establishing paternity in utero is difficult and sometimes impossible, raised concerns about cases of sexual violence and the invasiveness of genetic testing during pregnancy: "I think during pregnancy can be awfully invasive." Stahl Hamilton urged a no vote on the bill as drafted, warning of practical and medical consequences.

Representative Diaz (who offered a floor amendment) and Olson clarified that genetic testing would not be required in every case. Diaz said her amendment makes testing optional and only when necessary. Olson told the chamber that if a mother chooses to do genetic testing after birth the father's liability would be retroactive to the date of pregnancy confirmation but that mothers are not forced to test during pregnancy.

The committee of the whole adopted the floor amendment and recommended HB2144 as amended to pass; members who asked questions were advised the bill does not require invasive genetic testing during pregnancy. Next steps include engrossing and a potential third‑reading vote on the House floor.