This bill amends Title 23 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, specifically addressing the equitable division of marital property and the provisions for alimony. It introduces new language that prohibits a party convicted of committing a personal injury crime against their spouse from being awarded a percentage of marital assets or the right to reside in the marital residence, unless the court finds that such an award is necessary to prevent manifest injustice. Additionally, the bill stipulates that a party convicted of such a crime may not be awarded alimony unless the court determines that doing so is necessary to prevent manifest injustice.

The bill also clarifies that any alimony paid by the injured party after the commission of the offense but before the conviction can be recovered upon petition. Furthermore, it modifies the factors the court must consider when determining the necessity and terms of alimony, specifically noting that marital misconduct will be considered, but only the abuse of one party by the other will be relevant from the date of final separation. The changes aim to provide greater protection for victims of domestic violence in divorce proceedings. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 3119 (Mar 31, 2026): 23-3502(c), 23-3701(a), 23-14)