The push for Florida alimony reform is once again moving through the committees.
Read SB 668 at: https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2016/0668/ByVersion
Florida alimony reform changes can be widespread.
Consider the following aspects of the bill:
- Alimony calculated based on the difference in income and length of marriage without concern for the needs. Court can only deviate if presumptive alimony is inappropriate or inequitable.
- Presumption against any alimony in marriages with a length of one day short of 3 years.
- Statute states alimony will be taxable / deductible, completely ignoring the fact that the Federal Tax Law cannot be dictated by a State statute.
- Limitation of CS and alimony to 55% of payor’s net without the support, completely ignoring the tax benefits of the alimony for the payor.
- Equal timesharing is in the best interest of every child – really?
- New “easier” supportive relationship provisions, read it closely for the retroactive component.
- Reduction or suspension of alimony allowed during modification action. Fees, even against those who can’t afford it if the court thinks they should not have defended their position.