S9746

The New York State Senate passed legislation sponsored by Sen. Webb to strengthen protections for marital assets during divorce proceedings. The bill, which passed 43-16 on a roll call vote, requires spouses to inform each other of actions that could affect the marital estate, including tax liens, foreclosures, bankruptcy filings, and litigation. The measure also prevents either party from disposing of marital property before a divorce case is resolved. Additionally, the legislation clarifies procedures for divorce proceedings during court closures caused by emergencies, such as pandemics, by establishing alternate filing methods and prohibiting actions that would diminish the marital estate. Sen. Webb argued the bill ensures both parties are treated fairly during divorce proceedings. Sixteen senators voted against the measure, including Sens. Ashby, Borrello, Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, Gallivan, Griffo, Helming, Martins, Oberacker, O'Mara, Ortt, Rhoads, Rolison, Stec, Tedisco, Weber, and Weik.