The bill amends the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, specifically section 2950, to strengthen the provisions related to personal protection orders (PPOs) in Michigan. It allows individuals to petition the family division of the circuit court for a PPO against certain individuals, including spouses, former spouses, and those with whom they share a child or have had a dating relationship. The new language clarifies petitioners' rights, such as omitting their address from court documents, and mandates that the court must issue a PPO if there is reasonable cause to believe that the restrained individual may commit acts of violence or harassment.

Additionally, the bill outlines the procedures for issuing and enforcing PPOs, ensuring immediate enforceability upon a judge's signature, and specifies the responsibilities of court clerks and law enforcement in notifying relevant parties. It establishes penalties for violations, including imprisonment and fines, and prohibits mutual PPOs unless both parties have petitioned the court. The bill also introduces amendments regarding false statements made in support of PPO petitions, clarifies enforceability under the criminal procedure code, and defines the ownership interest a petitioner has in an animal. The amendments will take effect 90 days after enactment, contingent upon the passage of House Bill No. 4131.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 600.2950