Bill > H4046

This bill establishes a special commission to comprehensively study the alimony system in Massachusetts, with the goal of identifying potential improvements. The commission will consist of 9 members, including legislative leaders, judicial representatives, and experts from the Massachusetts Bar Association and Legal Assistance Corporation. The study will examine multiple aspects of alimony, including statewide trends in alimony awards, the current formula for determining alimony, economic implications for families, comparisons with other states' laws, the relationship between alimony and child support, court enforcement practices, and the uniformity of alimony application across different counties. By December 31, 2026, the commission is required to submit a detailed report to the judiciary committee and legislative clerks, which will include their findings, recommendations, and proposed legislative changes. The bill is characterized as an emergency measure, emphasizing the urgency and importance of studying and potentially reforming the alimony system in the Commonwealth.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4046