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H 1679

An Act to protect survivors of spousal abuse from alimony liability

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Pat Duffy and 1 co-sponsor

Massachusetts bill would exempt or reduce alimony obligations for spousal abuse survivors, severing financial ties between victims and abusers.

Accompanied a study order, see H5281 (under House Rule 27)
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Bill Summary · H 1679

Legislative bill overview

H 1679 would modify Massachusetts alimony law to protect survivors of spousal abuse by exempting them from paying alimony to an abusive ex-spouse or limiting alimony obligations in abuse cases. The bill addresses situations where abuse survivors may be ordered to pay spousal support to the person who harmed them, creating a potential financial tie to their abuser.

Why is this important

Abuse survivors often face significant barriers to financial independence, and mandatory alimony payments to an abuser can perpetuate economic control and dependence. This bill attempts to remove a legal mechanism that could trap survivors in ongoing financial relationships with their abusers, supporting both safety and economic autonomy for vulnerable individuals.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition of abuse: The bill's effectiveness depends on how "spousal abuse" is defined—whether it includes physical violence only, or also emotional, financial, and sexual abuse; different standards could significantly affect eligibility.
  • Burden of proof and evidentiary standards: Questions about what evidence is required to establish abuse, whether prior criminal convictions are necessary, or if civil court findings suffice; this could impact both abuse survivors' access and fairness to accused parties.
  • Impact on dependent spouses: Concerns that exempting abuse survivors from alimony could harm economically dependent spouses (including those who left careers for childcare) who might be excluded if abuse definitions are narrow or difficult to prove.

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

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