Philadelphian wins Sen. Williams ‘Oughta Be a Law’ contest

It’s not often a lawmaker gives voters the chance to propose a new law.

Senator Anthony Williams challenged voters this year to propose new laws in a contest he called “There Oughta Be a  Law!” As a result, the Senator’s office says it received more than 80 ideas for individuals across the state.

NewsWorks Chris Satullo wrote about the contest, compiling several ideas from NewsWorks Tonight listeners in a “Centre Square” blog published over the summer.

One idea, submitted by Nicole Crawford of Philadelphia, however, took the prize of Senator Williams’ competition.

According to Williams’ office, Crawford’s bill is intended to “protect against false claims of non-payment on child support by allowing non-custodial parents the right to have their child support payments documented with the state.”

The senator’s office says the proposed bill would allow non-custodial parents the right to initiate a child support case in Domestic Relations Court.

“This idea is a common-sense solution that would bring accountability to the system and fairness to the custodial process,” Williams said in a statement posted on his website.

I’m thrilled that Nicole brought this idea to my attention and I’m honored to introduce it as a bill in the state legislature on her behalf.”

Senator Willimams’ office has posted a link for voters to follow the progress of Crawford’s proposal and others. Once you are on the website, click “Legislation.”