HB 521 Pennsylvania House · 2025-2026 Regular Session

An Act amending Title 23 (Domestic Relations) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in alimony and support, further providing for alimony pendente lite, counsel fees and expenses.

HB 521 amends Pennsylvania law to clarify court authority for awarding temporary financial support during divorce proceedings. It allows courts to grant alimony pendente lite (temporary spousal support), reasonable legal fees, and exclusive use of the family home if one spouse lacks sufficient income/resources to cover basic needs and legal costs. The bill specifies courts cannot base these decisions solely on standard support guidelines or the couple's past lifestyle. It directly affects spouses navigating divorce who need immediate financial assistance to cover living expenses and legal representation. The changes take effect 60 days after enactment.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2025
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Feb 5, 2025 Last action Feb 5, 2025
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1
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Committee
1
Feb 5, 2025
Committee
Referred to Judiciary
lower
1 primary · 3 co-sponsors

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