Bill will provide for child support payments from conception once paternity is established
January 23, 2025 (Helena, MT) — Representative Courtenay Sprunger (R-Kalispell) has introduced House Bill 288, titled the "Fatherhood Begins at Conception,” in the Montana Legislature. This groundbreaking bill recognizes a father’s financial obligation to support a child beginning at conception, reflecting the shared responsibilities of parenthood during pregnancy and equal importance of a child’s life at all stages.
“From the moment of conception, pregnancy involves significant physical, emotional, and financial demands,” said Representative Sprunger. “This legislation ensures both parents participate in the full financial responsibilities of bringing a child into the world.”
HB 288 has garnered strong support from conservatives across both chambers based on the bills alignment with Republican values of family, personal responsibility, and the sanctity of life.

Under House Bill 288, the following tenants are established:
Once paternity is established (either during the pregnancy if paternity is uncontested or upon birth if contested) child support will begin at the date of conception as identified by a licensed medical professional.
In the case that paternity cannot be established until the birth of the child, child support payments will be payed retroactively to the date of conception.
Child support payments will be aligned with the present child support formula for a child’s early years.
If the pregnancy ends for any reason prior to birth, child support payments would end on the month of the pregnancy’s termination.
A mother has the right to opt out of child support.
By acknowledging these responsibilities early, the legislation seeks to foster greater equity and accountability in supporting families during the critical prenatal period. The bill also includes provisions that safeguard the rights of all parties involved. Fathers will not be responsible for this support until paternity is established, if contested. Mothers may object to paternity genetic testing during pregnancy, delaying such procedures until after birth to protect maternal health and privacy. If Montana’s Child Support Services is tasked with establishing paternity, the state’s established method of paternity testing, a cheek swab of all parties, will used as it is non-invasive and low cost.
“This bill recognizes the shared role of parents in preparing for their child’s arrival,” Sprunger emphasized. “It’s a commonsense step toward strengthening families and ensuring that mothers have the support they need.”
"Fatherhood Begins at Conception" will be heard in House Judiciary on January 30. For more information about the bill or to follow its progress, visit https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC1660?open_tab=bill.
About Representative Courtenay Sprunger
A fifth-generation resident of the Flathead, Courtenay Sprunger played a key role in the
68th Legislative Session, advocating for policies that prioritize fiscal responsibility, infrastructure improvements, and the safety and well-being of her community. As a champion of educational reform, Courtenay has been instrumental in advancing legislation that aims to improve the quality of education and expand opportunities for students across Montana. Her practical, results-driven approach to governance has helped pass bills that promote both local and statewide economic growth. She is a current board member for Kalispell CASA for Kids, Glacier Bank Division board member, former chair of the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce, Montana Ambassador, and the proud aunt to 13 nieces and nephews.
To learn more about the bills Courtenay passed and the key initiatives that have moved forward during the last session, https://www.courtenayforkalispell.com/news.
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