Bill > SB1250

This bill modifies Missouri's laws regarding spousal maintenance (alimony) by updating the criteria and conditions for awarding and terminating maintenance payments. The bill specifies that maintenance can be granted in divorce or separation proceedings if the spouse seeking maintenance lacks sufficient property to meet their reasonable needs and cannot support themselves through employment or is caring for a child. When determining maintenance, courts must consider multiple factors including each spouse's financial resources, earning capacity, marriage duration, age, physical and emotional condition, and the standard of living during the marriage. Importantly, the bill introduces a new provision that automatically terminates maintenance when the paying spouse reaches full retirement age, which is defined as the date they become eligible for or begin receiving full Social Security retirement benefits. The paying spouse must provide at least six months' notice before retirement, and the maintenance order must specify whether it is modifiable or nonmodifiable. If modifiable, the court can adjust the maintenance amount based on substantial changes in circumstances before the original termination date.

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https://www.senate.mo.gov/26info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=460