ISSUES       

In 2008 we are focusing on three key issues that foremost affect
blended families.

FINANCIAL WELL-BEING
Besides providing the ABFA card that offers discounts and buying power across the nation, this year ABFA  focusing on three issues.

JUDICIAL EDUCATION
District Court / Family Court Judges are improving across the nation as to understanding the divorce and custody arena.  The current 'system' is broken.  At various levels and through 'Continuing Studies' programs we will offer professional awareness of national trends and methods to enhance their respective areas of discipline.

CHILD SUPPORT
Both sides of the coin need attention to improve the system. The cost of raising a child is clear to most.  Their also is a difference between using Child Support to raise and child and Child Support to punish an former spouse who is payng.  We are working with state legislators in KS and MO to create a prototype model to take to all states that offers a favorable situation for all.  More info on this in March newsletter.

PARENTING TIME
This one of the leading causes of distress for families.  Plain and simple, children need both sets of parents (unless there is serious abuse) and the current state of the legal system does not provide a solution that works well. Enforcement of parenting time guidelines without the costly use of attorneys is one area under review.
Child Support enforcement has agencies.  Parenting time does not.  This must change.

 LEGISLATION

Across the nation we are forming statewide chapters of ABFA that will set forth in each state the process of making legislators more aware and understanding of the challenges faced by blended families.

The USABFA intends to recruit and grow a national network that will become a formidable lobbying and action group for the benefit of their state's blended families.  We also will seek to improve the lives of single parents also.

   CUSTODY     

Divorce and Custody issues often become one of the key areas of pain or 'breakdown' that damage new blended families.  The still lingering feelings in some divorce situation create legal, family and psychological issues for which  families aren't sure where to turn for effective assistance, counsel or coaching.  

ABFA at the state and federal levels will work to improve the clear understanding of the impact on children long term of 'custody battles' and how they are affecting society at every level.

For individuals, ABFA can also point families to professionals in the areas of legal assistance and family therapy, as well as para-professionals equiped to serve.