This bill introduces new provisions for workplace violence protective orders in Alaska, allowing employers to petition for protective orders against individuals who threaten or commit acts of violence in the workplace. The bill amends existing laws to include specific definitions and procedures for these protective orders, including the ability for employers to seek ex parte orders without prior notice to the respondent if there is probable cause for recent violence or threats. The protective orders can prohibit the respondent from making threats, contacting the petitioner, or entering the workplace, and they are effective for six months unless dissolved earlier by the court. Additionally, the bill ensures that attorney fees cannot be awarded against petitioners seeking these protective orders.

The bill also makes several amendments to existing statutes, including the definition of protective orders and the powers of district judges and magistrates. It specifies that attorney fees cannot be awarded against petitioners under various protective order statutes, and it establishes a central registry for protective orders maintained by the Department of Public Safety. Furthermore, the bill outlines the responsibilities of law enforcement in serving protective orders and clarifies that no fees will be charged for filing or serving these orders. The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, contingent upon receiving a two-thirds majority vote in both houses of the legislature.

Statutes affected:
HB0222A, AM HB 222, introduced 05/07/2025: 11.56.740, 18.66.100, 18.65.850, 18.65.855, 18.65.860, 18.65.867, 13.26.450, 13.26.460, 18.65.875, 18.65.899, 18.65.870, 18.66.180, 13.26.455, 18.65.530, 11.41.100, 11.41.130, 12.30.016, 12.30.027, 18.65.540, 18.65.877, 18.65.880, 18.66.120, 18.65.865, 18.65.885, 18.65.890, 18.65.895, 29.71.800, 18.65.897, 11.41.270, 18.66.150, 22.15.100, 09.55.020, 09.55.069, 18.15.375