Divorce is a terrible thing that often isn't easy on the wife or husband - but is always difficult for children. Any man or woman who has been through a divorce, no matter how amicable, has witnessed the impact on children. Several things can lessen the pain, with love demonstrated through child support being a primary one.

There are obviously reasons why some parents fail to pay child support, or fall behind in court-ordered payments. Some real ones that come to mind are a loss of job or health. Many reasons, however, are only excuses, such as throwing money after vices or undertaking foolish propositions.

The majority of North Dakotans don't have a problem supporting their children - in or out of marriage. But some need to remember that their children should come first. Making babies comes with great responsibility.

But because some live outside the law, the Department of Human Services employs methods of collection of that support. The most effective is through income withholding from the non-custodial parent. Court actions, such as liens and forced property sales, can occur, and federal and state income tax refunds, lottery winnings and inheritances can be intercepted. Federal criminal prosecution also can occur and a delinquent parent can be found in contempt of court and given jail time or an order to complete work activities.

But one child support enforcement program that seems to cross a line is license suspension.

It was recently reported that more than 1,000 North Dakotans have had their driver's licenses suspended after failing to make child support payments. Another 688 people are reportedly subject to losing their licenses if they don't comply with payment plans.

The suspension laws not only take away the privilege of driving, but also can revoke hunting, professional and occupational licenses, as well as business permits and vehicle registrations for cars, trucks, boats and airplanes (usually for those in serious arrears).

That seems foolish for a couple of reasons. First, there are plentiful methods of collection without unleashing the license police. Second, a non-custodial parent might need a driver's license, or car registration, or professional or occupational license, or business permit to make money so they can pay child support.

Taking away such licenses seems more like punishment than a deterrent or collection method. What message does this send?

Still, parents are responsible for supporting their children. None of the collection methods would be necessary if delinquent parents viewed support as an investment in their child's future, rather than a court-mandated payment.