Chile's Chamber of Deputies and Representatives approved a bill preventing those listed in the National Registry of Child Support Debtors from obtaining, renewing, or keeping driver's licenses. The measure, passed with 80 votes in favor and 36 abstentions, amends the Traffic Law to encourage payment of these obligations. The bill now heads to the Senate for its second constitutional process.
On Monday, Chile's Chamber of Deputies and Representatives passed a bill with 80 votes in favor and 36 abstentions, sponsored by a cross-party group of lawmakers. Led by Deputy Alejandra Placencia (PC) along with Boris Barrera (PC), Ana María Bravo (PS), Felipe Camaño (IND), Luis Cuello (PC), Marta González (IND), Emilia Nuyado (PS), Daniela Serrano (PC), and Gael Yeomans (FA), the initiative restricts driver's licenses for child support debtors.
The bill amends the Traffic Law by adding a new requirement: not being listed in the National Registry of Debtors to obtain or renew the license. Municipal traffic departments must verify this status before issuing documents. If someone is added to the registry after obtaining a license, it will be administratively canceled following monthly reviews and notification via email or certified letter.
Those who lose their license due to this reason can apply for a new one immediately upon exiting the registry, without the two-year wait required for other cancellations. During the debate, lawmakers from various benches emphasized that the measure promotes effective payment of child support, directly impacting thousands of children and adolescents.
Contraloría data showed that between 2022 and 2024, 3,400 registry-listed individuals obtained or renewed licenses despite owing over 17 billion pesos. Additionally, 70% of municipalities failed to comply with the current law prohibiting such issuances. While some deputies warned of potential administrative burdens and municipal oversight gaps, the majority prioritized advancing child support compliance.
Approved in general on September 10, the text returned to the Women's Committee for amendments that were rejected both in committee and in the chamber, readying it for the Senate.