A8299

The Senate passed Assembly Bill 8299, an act to amend the Domestic Relations Law, on a roll call vote of 50-9. The measure, sponsored by Assemblymember Lavine, strengthens protections for spouses during divorce proceedings by addressing two gaps in current law. The bill requires spouses to notify each other within 10 days of receiving notices regarding foreclosures, bankruptcies, or lawsuits that could affect marital property. It also clarifies that automatic orders—rules preventing either spouse from moving money or selling property once a divorce case begins—remain in effect throughout the entire proceeding, including the period between trial and final judgment. Sen. Webb, voting in favor, characterized the changes as practical updates that close loopholes and prevent financial harm. Nine senators voted against the measure: Gallivan, Griffo, O'Mara, Ortt, Stec, Tedisco, Walczyk, Weik, and Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick. The bill takes effect 60 days after becoming law.