This bill amends Minnesota's laws regarding spousal maintenance and child support, introducing significant changes to the criteria for awarding maintenance. It emphasizes that custodians should not be compelled to seek employment outside the home and allows for maintenance to be either transitional or indefinite, depending on the marriage's duration. New subdivisions clarify when maintenance obligations can terminate, such as upon the death or remarriage of the receiving party, and outline conditions for modifying maintenance based on changes in income or tax laws. The bill also establishes specific presumptions for the duration of maintenance based on the length of the marriage and addresses how cohabitation and retirement can affect maintenance obligations.

Additionally, the bill repeals certain existing provisions, including the requirement for courts to consider the financial circumstances of each party's spouse when modifying maintenance. It specifies that compensation for employment beyond a 40-hour work week will not be considered under certain conditions and clarifies that support modifications can only be retroactive to the date of notice of the motion. The repeal of Minnesota Statutes 2022, section 518A.39, subdivision 3, alters how future maintenance obligations are managed in cases of death or remarriage, potentially allowing for continued support. The bill also permits courts to set an alternative effective date for maintenance or support orders if both parties consent.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 518.552
1st Engrossment: 518.552
2nd Engrossment: 518.552, 518A.39