The bill amends the law regarding alimony in Arkansas by expanding the criteria for what constitutes a significant and material change in circumstances that would allow for the review or modification of an alimony order. It specifies that both the payer and recipient of alimony can petition the court for modifications based on various factors, including significant changes in the recipient's financial need, improvements in their financial situation, changes in their standard of living, and the payer's involuntary decrease in ability to pay due to disability or retirement. Additionally, it requires that evidence of a party's inability to work due to disability must include documentation from a medical professional.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a limitation on the duration of alimony awards, stating that for all alimony orders entered on or after July 1, 2023, the liability for alimony cannot exceed fifty percent of the duration of the marriage. This change aims to provide clearer guidelines and limitations on alimony, ensuring that both parties have a fair opportunity to seek modifications based on their changing circumstances.

Statutes affected:
HB 1792: 9-12-312(a)