In most states, child support paid on behalf of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) participants is used to offset TANF and child support administrative expenditures; this policy primarily benefits taxpayers. In contrast, Wisconsin allowed most custodial parents to keep all support paid on their behalf. This policy, which treats welfare…

Examines Wisconsin divorce cases (n=3,774) before and after income-sharing guidelines were implemented relating to child support. Found that the negative impact of the mother's income on the size of child support orders has fallen substantially since the guidelines have been effective. Discusses implications. (RB)