The bill amends the Revised Judicature Act of 1961 by updating Section 2950a and adding new sections 2950d and 2950p, which allow individuals to petition the family division of the circuit court for personal protection orders (PPOs) against specific prohibited conduct such as stalking and sexual assault. It clarifies the process for obtaining these orders, requiring courts to provide specific reasons for granting or denying petitions. The bill also establishes that PPOs are effective immediately upon a judge's signature and can be enforced across state lines. Key changes include the designation of a law enforcement agency responsible for entering the order into the Law Enforcement Information Network (L.E.I.N.) and serving it on the respondent, as well as provisions allowing petitioners to omit their address for safety reasons.

Additionally, the bill introduces a personal protection order service fund to support the service of court documents related to PPOs and foreign protection orders. It specifies that a law enforcement agency that issues a PPO is not required to serve it, and clarifies that if an individual has not been served, law enforcement must inform them of the order's existence and the prohibited conduct before making an arrest for violation. The bill also emphasizes the need for parents or guardians to be served when the individual is under 18 and establishes penalties for non-compliance with PPO terms. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the protection of individuals from harassment and violence through clearer legal processes and enforcement mechanisms.

Statutes affected:
Substitute (H-1): 600.2950
Substitute (H-3): 600.2950
House Introduced Bill: 600.2950
As Passed by the House: 600.2950