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SD 1983

An Act reforming alimony in the Commonwealth

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Paul Feeney

Massachusetts alimony reform bill establishing time-limited, predictable spousal support instead of potentially indefinite payments.

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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SD 1983

Legislative bill overview

SD 1983 proposes reforms to Massachusetts alimony law, which historically allowed indefinite spousal support payments. The bill modifies the duration and calculation of alimony obligations to create more predictable, time-limited support arrangements. The specific changes focus on establishing clearer standards for when and how long alimony payments must continue.

Why is this important

Alimony reform directly affects thousands of Massachusetts residents going through divorce, impacting household finances for both paying spouses and recipients. Current Massachusetts law permits lifetime alimony in some cases, creating significant long-term financial obligations that reform advocates argue can discourage remarriage or self-sufficiency among recipients, while opponents counter that eliminating long-term support harms economically vulnerable ex-spouses.

Potential points of contention

  • Duration limits vs. spousal security: Establishing time limits on alimony may reduce financial burden on paying spouses but could leave older or lower-earning ex-spouses vulnerable, particularly those who left careers to raise families
  • Calculation methodology: Reforms changing how alimony is calculated (percentage of income, duration formulas, etc.) will create winners and losers among current and future divorcees depending on their circumstances
  • Fairness to stay-at-home parents: Balancing reformed alimony with the economic reality that some spouses sacrificed earning potential during marriage remains contentious

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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