11.25.25

📰 November 2025 Alimony Reform Update: Growing Support for H.3098 Ahead of the 2026 Legislative Session

As South Carolina prepares for the 2026 legislative session, momentum around alimony reform continues to build. Earlier this year, the House Judiciary Committee received widespread public input on H.3098 — a bill designed to modernize the state’s long-standing permanent alimony structure and align South Carolina with the vast majority of states that have already enacted reform.

Over the past several months, grassroots engagement has increased significantly. Citizens from across the Upstate, Midlands, Lowcountry, and Pee Dee have contacted their representatives to express concerns about the current system, which critics argue is outdated, inconsistent, and financially destabilizing for many families. Supporters of reform emphasize that permanent alimony is now rare nationwide and that South Carolina’s laws have not kept pace with modern workforce realities.

The 2024 election cycle also introduced several new legislators who have indicated an openness to reviewing alimony statutes, particularly in light of the bipartisan reform efforts seen in neighboring states. With the new session beginning in January, advocates are working to ensure H.3098 receives renewed consideration and a fair, thorough review.

Fair Futures South Carolina will continue providing updates, legislative tracking, and avenues to contact lawmakers as the session approaches. Supporters across the state are encouraged to stay informed, get involved, and lend their voice to the ongoing effort to create a fair and sustainable approach to alimony in South Carolina.

10.30.25

4.30.25

News Update: House Judiciary Review Subcommittee Hearing on H.3098

The House Judiciary Review Subcommittee met this week to hear testimony on H.3098, South Carolina’s alimony reform bill. While no vote was taken—due to incomplete attendance—the subcommittee will review the hearing video and all written testimony before determining next steps. The bill can still advance to the full House during this legislative cycle.

Despite the short notice, numerous citizens submitted testimony or attended in person. Their stories underscored the urgent need to modernize South Carolina’s alimony laws. One especially powerful moment came from an 81-year-old speaker who testified not for himself, but on behalf of others affected by the current system — a reminder of how broad and deep the impact of permanent alimony truly is.

Although 2025 is nearing its close, this hearing has generated meaningful momentum heading into the 2026 legislative year, where continued engagement will play a crucial role in advancing reform.

How supporters can help now:

• Contact your legislators and ask where they stand on H.3098.

• Share information about permanent alimony with friends, family, and community groups — many are unaware South Carolina still uses a lifetime model.

• Prepare to attend future hearings, as public presence remains one of the strongest signals of support.

• Continue raising awareness through letters, conversations, and community outreach.

Fair Futures South Carolina will continue providing updates as the bill progresses and new hearings are scheduled.

1.15.25

News Update: Momentum for Alimony Reform in the 2025–2026 Legislative Cycle

As the South Carolina Legislature reconvenes, renewed momentum for alimony reform has emerged following the 2024 Senate elections. Several reform bills are now positioned for review, including H.3098, which modernizes alimony laws to reflect today’s economic realities and better support families on both sides of divorce.

Support from the public remains essential. Legislators consistently note that constituent engagement is one of the strongest influences on whether a bill is given priority during a crowded session. Without visible public interest, reform efforts risk stalling before reaching a vote.

Supporters are encouraged to:

• Contact their House and Senate members to request support for H.3098 and related reform bills.

• Share their personal experiences to help lawmakers understand the real-world impact of current permanent alimony statutes.

• Stay engaged throughout the session, as bills can move quickly once hearings begin.

To identify your representatives, visit:
South Carolina Legislature Online – Find Your Legislators

Fair Futures South Carolina will continue monitoring developments and sharing updates as the legislative process unfolds.