Between 2018 and March 2025, more than 8,000 fathers in Tabasco faced legal action for failing to meet their child support obligations, underscoring a persistent issue that affects the welfare of thousands of children and families in the state.
Data from the Executive Secretariat of the National Public Security System (SESNSP) reveals fluctuating trends in child support non-compliance cases. In 2018, 1,366 cases were reported to the State Attorney General’s Office (FGE), a figure that slightly decreased to 1,334 in 2019. However, complaints dropped significantly to 855 in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Following the easing of restrictions, affected individuals resumed demanding support for their children. Cases began rising again, with 1,107 complaints in 2021, 1,018 in 2022, and 1,090 in 2023. By 2024, a total of 1,014 new cases were filed, while 290 additional complaints were lodged as of March 2025. Altogether, the FGE has opened 8,073 cases during this seven-year period.
Under Article 206 of the Penal Code of the State of Tabasco, failing to fulfill family support obligations is defined as the neglect to provide essential resources for the subsistence of dependents. Those convicted of this crime face sentences ranging from six months to two years in prison.
In response to this widespread issue, the National Registry of Child Support Obligations was established in 2023. The registry aims to safeguard the rights of minors and consolidate information on individuals who fail to meet their legal obligations. Those listed in the registry face consequences such as the suspension of citizenship rights, barring them from holding public office or running for elected positions.
Efforts to address child support non-compliance continue to draw attention to the importance of upholding legal and social responsibilities to support vulnerable children and families in Tabasco.
Source: El Heraldo de Tabasco
