HB1663
To Prohibit An Award Of Alimony Or Terminate Alimony For A Person Who Has Been Found To Have Committed An Act Of Civil Or Criminal Domestic Abuse When The Victim Would Be The Payor Of Alimony.
Last Action (May 5, 2025): Died in House Committee at Sine Die adjournment.
Sponsors
AI-Generated Summary
House Bill 1663 amends Arkansas law to restrict alimony payments in cases involving domestic abuse. It mandates that courts deny alimony to any petitioner who has been found to have committed an act of domestic abuse under the Domestic Abuse Act of 1991, or who has been convicted of specified domestic battery or assault crimes against the potential payor. Additionally, the bill grants courts the authority to terminate existing alimony awards if the recipient is subsequently found to have committed such acts against the payor. Under these circumstances, the finding of domestic abuse or a criminal conviction is defined as a significant and material change in circumstances for the purpose of modifying alimony. The legislation applies to both new alimony petitions and ongoing court-ordered support arrangements.
Potential Impact Analysis
Who Might Benefit?
The primary beneficiaries are individuals who would otherwise be required to pay alimony to a spouse or former spouse who has been found to have committed acts of domestic abuse, domestic battering, or domestic assault against them. These payors would be relieved of the financial obligation to support their abusers.
Who Might Suffer?
The individuals negatively impacted are those currently receiving or seeking alimony who are subsequently found to have committed domestic abuse or specific domestic-related criminal offenses against the person responsible for the payments. These individuals would face the loss of potential or existing financial support.
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