This bill amends the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, specifically section 2950, to enhance the provisions regarding personal protection orders in Michigan. It clarifies the individuals against whom petitioners can seek protection, including spouses, former spouses, individuals with whom they share a child, dating partners, and those residing in the same household. The bill introduces new language allowing personal protection orders to be issued if there is reasonable cause to believe that an individual may commit acts of violence or harassment. It also modifies penalties for violating these orders, increasing the potential imprisonment for individuals aged 18 and older from a maximum of 93 days to a minimum of 182 days, with severe violations potentially leading to life imprisonment.

Additionally, the bill specifies that individuals who knowingly make false statements in support of their petitions for personal protection orders may face contempt of court. It outlines conditions under which personal protection orders cannot be issued, particularly when the respondent is a minor child or the petitioner is the unemancipated minor child of the respondent. The bill also defines the ownership interest a petitioner has in an animal and provides definitions for terms relevant to personal protection orders. These amendments aim to strengthen the legal framework for protecting individuals from domestic violence and harassment, ensuring clear and effective enforcement of these orders, and will take effect 90 days after enactment.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 600.2950