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HD 2958

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 bars courts from ordering abuse survivors to pay alimony to spouses with substantiated domestic abuse histories, removing financial ties post-divorce.

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Bill Summary · HD 2958

Legislative bill overview

HD 2958 would modify Massachusetts alimony law to prevent courts from ordering abuse survivors to pay alimony to their former spouses who committed domestic abuse against them. The bill establishes that a history of substantiated spousal abuse would constitute grounds for reducing or eliminating alimony obligations that might otherwise be awarded during divorce proceedings.

Why is this important

Domestic abuse survivors often face financial dependence on their abusers, and current alimony rules can inadvertently perpetuate this dynamic by requiring survivors to provide ongoing financial support to the person who harmed them. This creates a perverse incentive structure where abuse survivors must continue financial entanglement with abusers and may discourage victims from leaving or pursuing legal remedies.

Potential points of contention

  • Defining "spousal abuse": The bill's effectiveness depends on how "substantiated spousal abuse" is defined—whether it requires criminal conviction, civil court findings, or documented evidence, which affects who qualifies for protection
  • Unequal impact on lower-earning abusers: In cases where the abuse survivor earns significantly more, eliminating alimony could leave lower-income former spouses without support, raising questions about distinguishing abuse protection from financial relief based on earning capacity
  • Burden of proof and false accusations: Determining abuse status during divorce proceedings may create disputes, and the bill should clarify evidentiary standards to prevent weaponization by either party in contested cases

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

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