Because Idaho does not recognize legal separation, however, critics voiced concern about spouses caught in abusive relationships. Dorr has added a bill that establishes legal separation. Although both bills are expected to die in committee this session, they will probably become a top conservative caucus issue for the 1997 session. After talking with representatives from the Georgia chapter of the National Organization for Women, Joyce added provisions that would allow a unilateral no-fault divorce for spouses involved in physically abusive marriages. Despite the support of Republican governor Terry Branstad, a bill similar to Michigan's was killed in the house in March.
Lawmakers vow to reintroduce the legislation next year.
Although no divorce-reform legislation is now in the pipeline, just watch. Legislatures in several other states, including Illinois, Pennsylvania, Florida, Indiana, and Kansas, are considering reforms of no-fault divorce this year, but these are given little chance of passing. It was shot down quickly in committee. Still, the issue is here to stay. Larry Huff of the Family Research Council reports that more bills are expected to be introduced next year in Maine, Washington, and several other states.