The proposed General Assembly Raised Bill No. 278 seeks to strengthen the legal framework for military protective orders in cases of military interpersonal violence. Key provisions include allowing applicants to disclose whether the respondent has firearms or ammunition, and requiring that hearings on protective order applications occur within seven days for firearm-related cases and fourteen days for others. The bill also enables courts to consider relevant public court records and family services unit reports when making decisions. It defines "military protective order" as one issued by a commanding officer in the armed forces or the Connecticut National Guard, and introduces a new provision that if an applicant is under eighteen, a responsible adult may only speak on their behalf if good cause is shown.

Additionally, the bill repeals and replaces existing language in sections 46b-15 and 46b-16a of the general statutes, removing references to the "protection order registry" and establishing a "registry of protective orders" that includes military protective orders. It mandates that courts consider existing military protective orders when issuing civil protective orders for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, sexual violence, or stalking. The legislation also creates an automated registry of protective orders, which will include military protective orders entered into the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) computerized index, ensuring comprehensive tracking and accessibility. The Chief Court Administrator will maintain this registry and develop operational policies, with the changes set to take effect on October 1, 2026.