This bill mandates that the adjutant general provide financial assistance to current and former members of the national guard who are victims of sexual assault or sexual harassment. This assistance is intended to help cover reasonable expenses incurred while participating in related administrative or military justice proceedings. The bill clarifies that this provision does not alter or expand the victims' rights to participate in such proceedings.

Additionally, the bill introduces the concept of "military protective orders," which are orders issued against current members of the U.S. Armed Forces or national guard by their commanding officer. It allows for the inclusion of military protective orders as admissible evidence in civil domestic violence proceedings, thereby enhancing the legal framework for addressing domestic violence cases involving military personnel. The bill will take effect on January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 110-B:8, 173-B:1, 173-B:3, 173-B:9, 633:3-a
As Amended by the House: 110-B:8, 173-B:1
Version adopted by both bodies: 110-B:8, 173-B:1
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 110-B:8, 173-B:1