CS/HB 1409 - Dissolution of Marriage Summary

• Eliminates permanent alimony as an award type; establishes bridge-the-gap (max 2 years), rehabilitative (max 5 years), and durational alimony (limited to 50-75% of marriage length depending on duration) as primary forms.

• Redefines marriage duration categories: short-term (less than 7 years), moderate-term (7-17 years), and long-term (17+ years) for determining alimony eligibility and duration limits.

• Courts must consider spouse adultery and economic impact when determining alimony awards and must make specific written findings regarding alimony decisions.

• Modifies parenting plan modification standards to remove "unanticipated" change requirement and allow parent relocation within 50 miles as a substantial and material change in circumstances if in child's best interests.

• Establishes specific standards for reducing or terminating alimony based on supportive relationships, obligor retirement (with advance filing allowed up to 6 months before), and requires obligor to prove retirement reduces ability to pay.

• Effective date: July 1, 2023.