Senator Timilty Votes to Pass Alimony Reform

Senator James E. Timilty, D-Walpole, announced Friday that the Senate has approved significant changes to the Massachusetts alimony system.

This legislation overhauls specific guidelines to current state law by addressing current definitions and reforming the way in which the duration and level of alimony payments are ordered. This bill,having come at the recommendation of a special task force appointed in 2009, marks the first time in two decades that the Legislature has updated the Commonwealth’s alimony laws.

“This proposal provides for a comprehensive and balanced solution to an issue troubling so many people across the Commonwealth,” said Senator Timilty.  “The measure passed by the Senate today addresses a matter long overdue for reform, and I am happy to support this bill.”

The proposed revision presents clear categories of reform, while also giving judges greater discretion over individual cases in the court room.  Among the factors which the bill addresses, the bill further clarifies the definition of cohabitation, cases in which an ex-spouse is living with another person, and expels the income of a second spouse as grounds for determination.

This measure comes after years of attempted reform.  The special task force was appointed in October of 2009 to review foundations of alimony and pending reform bills before the Legislature’s Joint Committee on the Judiciary.  After more than a year’s worth of research and testimony, the task force made their recommendations, upon which the Senate version of the bill is based. 

Senate Bill 665, commonly known as “Alimony Reform Bill of 2011” passed the Senate by a vote of 36-0 and heads back to the House of Representatives for reconciliation before being sent to Governor Patrick’s desk for his consideration.