This bill amends the Child Protection Act to broaden the scope of individuals against whom a parent or guardian can seek a restraining order on behalf of a minor child alleging abuse. Specifically, it removes the limitation that the abuse must be by a member of the minor's family or household, allowing for petitions to be filed against any individual. Additionally, the bill clarifies that a parent cannot file a petition against the other parent, and it allows minors seeking protective orders to do so without being accompanied by a parent or guardian.

The bill also includes a provision for guardians to file petitions for protective orders on behalf of their wards, similarly removing the restriction regarding the abuser's relationship to the ward. The changes aim to enhance the protective measures available for minors facing abuse. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 169-C:7-a
Version adopted by both bodies: 169-C:7-a