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In Poae v. Pope, 342 So.2d 1000 (Fla. 4th DCA 1977), we
announced the principle that loss in the purchasing power of the
dollar is a relevant factor to be considered in modifying an award
of alimony. See also Greene v. Greene, 372 So.2d 189 (Fla. 3d DCA
1979). The principle is equally applicable to modifications of
child support. Further the proof in the case at bar did not limit
itself to a general showing that the cost of living had risen
throughout the nation. Mrs. Cowan's testimony was sufficient to
demonstrate the adverse impact of inflation upon the original
child support award. Thus, there was competent evidence that the
national problem of inflation was related to this case in that the
buying power of one of the parties was so reduced as to constitute
a substantial change in circumstances. See Powell v. Powell, 386
So.2d 1214 (Fla. 3d D.^.A 1~980).
Accordingly, the cause is REVERSED and REMANDED for
f~rther proceeding~ consistent with this opinion. 51'7~+0
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DOWNEY, J. , concurs. git~t ~nc *_~~c~:=:~~
BERANEK, J. , concurs s eciall . sT.~ucsi..cutilY.Fia.
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C~ERK Ci~ C!.;t cc:z'
Eii .. '.t • " ~-
BERANEK, J., concurring-specially.
I concur specially for the pur~ose of noting that the
modification in this case was based on the effects of inflation on
the particular litigant and the increased salary of the former
husband. I would not approve reliance upon national inflationary
, trends alone as a basis for modification. The particular exhibit
in question which was presented to the trial court in supQort of
the inflation argument was entitled, "Bureau of Labor Statistics,
washington, D.C. 2d212 Corisumer Price Index for Urban Wage
Earners and Clerical Workers U.S. City Average: All Items --
Series A." The document has 182 numerical entries, but to be
~
frank, I am not at all sure how to interpret it. I have not the
slightest idea that this document is particularly applicable to
the situation prpsented in this case.
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- 3 B~~K 348 PA~E 2170