When it comes to divorce, the outcomes may be the same, but the causes can differ. Democrats have filed bills in the state House and Senate that would end North Carolina's controversial alienation of affection law. Senate Bill 459 and companion House Bill 489 also would shorten the waiting period for getting a divorce to six months. Now, the waiting period is 12 months. For couples without children, the six-month period could be waived if the divorce is uncontested and both parties agree. The bills would allow for divorce proceedings to continue even if the couple remains in the same household for financial reasons, or have occasional sex.