Utah Senate approves alimony reform and protective order expungement bills

The Utah Senate made significant strides in the 2022 General Legislative Session, particularly with the passage of Senate Bill 74, which addresses alimony modifications. The bill aims to clarify the duration of alimony payments, ensuring they are determined by the length of the marriage at the time of filing for divorce, rather than the duration of the divorce proceedings. This change comes in response to concerns that some individuals were prolonging divorce cases to secure additional alimony.

Senator Weiler, who presented the bill, emphasized that the legislation is designed to prevent manipulation of the system during court backlogs exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. He explained that if a divorce takes longer than expected, it should not unfairly extend alimony payments. The bill passed unanimously with 27 votes in favor and will now move to the House for consideration.

In addition to Senate Bill 74, the Senate also uncircled and advanced Senate Bill 85, which introduces a process for expunging civil protective orders after they expire. This bill aims to help individuals move forward with their lives by allowing them to clear their records under certain conditions, while still providing safeguards for victims of domestic violence.

Senator Weiler highlighted the importance of this legislation, noting that it aligns civil remedies with criminal expungement processes, thereby offering a fresh start for those affected by protective orders. The bill also passed without opposition, receiving 26 votes in favor.

As the session progresses, these legislative changes reflect a commitment to adapting laws to better serve the evolving needs of Utah's families and individuals.