TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – There was compelling testimony Wednesday at the state Capitol from women who pay and receive alimony. But some serious questions remain about the impact of what is being called alimony reform.

Under the legislation, the person paying alimony would have to apply to the court at least one year before retiring and get the court's permission to retire.

Divorcing parents would be presumed to have a 50/50 split of child custody under the legislation. It also limits alimony and child support payments -- combined -- to no more than 55 percent of the payer's income.

Two years ago, the bill made it to the governor's desk. He vetoed it because it allowed retroactivity. Whether the legislation actually allowed retroactivity was a major concern at the committee.

"I want to make sure that there is nothing in this bill that makes it retroactive," Sen. Anitere Flores said.

"There is nothing in this bill that makes it retroactive," Sen Kelli Stargel said.

Tarie MacMillan was the only woman to speak for the legislation.

"I work every day and (my ex) does not. He receives 65 percent of what I earn and I must live on the remaining 35 percent," MacMillan said. "This goes on until he dies, or I die."

Opponents, though, brought three women who said they are being harassed on social media for their opposition.

Cathy Jones of Lakeland told the committee the legislation is anti-woman.

"There is no need for it," she said. "We have a mechanism for modifying alimony based on circumstances changing on either side. This is an unnecessary bill that's punitive toward women."

Under the bill, alimony would last for a minimum of 25 percent of the length of the marriage, but no more than 75 percent of the time in wedlock. The amount would be determined by a formula based on the couple's incomes.