Concerning the just and equitable distribution of real property and liabilities in the dissolution of marriage or domestic partnerships.
This bill, SB 5536, clarifies how real property and associated debts are handled during the dissolution of a marriage or domestic partnership, directly affecting divorcing or separating couples and their creditors. It ensures that court orders regarding the ownership and disposition of real property are enforceable by either party and must be adhered to by creditors. Additionally, the bill directs courts to specifically consider the costs associated with preparing real property for sale, such as taxes and fees, and to assess the potential for homelessness for a spouse and children when making decisions about the family home.
Bill status
passed
3 of 5 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2026
Committee Review
Feb 2026
Senate Passage
Feb 2026
House Passage
Governor
Introduced Jan 12, 2026
Last action Mar 12, 2026
Floor votes · Senate Feb 13, 2026
How they voted
42–8
Passed · 1 other
Total votes 51
Feb 13, 2026
D
Democratic31
77% Yea
R
Republican20
90% Yea
Vote distribution
All Yea
All Nay
Mixed
No data
Full legislative history
Actions timeline
Total actions
19
Key actions
7
Committee
6
Feb 24, 2026
Lower · Passed
Public hearing in the House Committee on Civil Rights & Judiciary at 10:30 AM.
lower
Feb 13, 2026
Senate · Passed
Senate Vote: pass (42-8-1)
senate
Jan 12, 2026
Introduced
By resolution, reintroduced and retained in present status.
upper
Feb 13, 2025
Upper · Passed
Minority; without recommendation.
upper
Feb 13, 2025
Upper · Passed
Minority; do not pass.
upper
Feb 13, 2025
Upper · Passed
LAW - Majority; do pass.
upper
Feb 13, 2025
Upper · Passed
Executive action taken in the Senate Committee on Law & Justice at 10:30 AM.
upper
Feb 10, 2025
Upper · Passed
Public hearing in the Senate Committee on Law & Justice at 10:30 AM.
upper
1 primary · 0 co-sponsors
Sponsors
Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Phil Fortunato
RRepublican
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