The U.S. State Department is set to begin revoking the passports of thousands of Americans who owe substantial unpaid child support. Revocations will begin Friday and will initially focus on parents who owe $100,000 or more in past-due child support.

As the first wave of revocations begins on Friday, thousands of Americans will find themselves grounded. To regain their travel privileges, these individuals will generally need to work with their state child support agencies to pay off their arrears in full or reach an acceptable settlement.

For the thousands of families waiting for years to receive unpaid support, this policy change offers a glimmer of hope that accountability is finally arriving.

“Do you think revoking passports is a fair way to collect child support? Share your thoughts in the comments.”