April 11, 2016 — SEMINOLE, Fla. -- "I'm concerned for the women and for the children."
Toni Van Pelt is concerned because she feels a new bill that's sitting on Gov. Rick Scott's desk will unfairly hurt women and children. Van Pelt is a member of the Florida National Organization for Women.
"It's proven over and over again that women do not receive equal pay for equal work so that is something that needs to be considered."
In the bill, permanent alimony is discouraged, the amount and duration of spousal support is based on how long a couple is married and there are alimony limits based on income.
Ironically, it's sponsored by two women Republican lawmakers from Lakeland -- Rep. Colleen Burton Sen. Kelli Stargel.
"I think that what needs to be done is more studying on how will these provisions, how will these bills actually affect real families," Van Pelt said.
Divorce for Men attorney Alan Rosenthal thinks the bill evens the playing field.
"As far as permanent alimony, I think its time has come and gone. Men and women basically have an equal opportunity to join the workforce," he said.
Perhaps the biggest rift between the bill's supporters and opponents is the aspect about child custody. It requires the court to begin with the premise that minor children should spend equal amounts of time with each parent.
Rosenthal said that's the right way to go.
"If the court can't come up with a good reason, I think mom and dad should have equal rights to see the minor children and I think it's very important that they do have equal rights."
But, Van Pelt believes it's not good for families.
"That might not be the best interest of the child, that should be the first consideration."
Scott has until April 19 to decide on the bill. He vetoed a similar measure in 2013.
