This bill introduces new provisions regarding civil restraining orders and the handling of firearms in such cases. It mandates that individuals seeking restraining orders must be informed and must acknowledge their understanding that any material false statements made in their petitions could lead to prosecution for perjury. Specifically, the bill stipulates that in non-domestic violence situations, the court will not require the surrender of firearms, ammunition, or deadly weapons unless the petitioner explicitly requests this relief and the court deems it necessary for the safety of the petitioner.

Additionally, the bill amends existing law to ensure that individuals filing petitions for protection against stalking are also informed of the perjury implications and that the same conditions regarding the surrender of firearms apply. The effective date for this legislation is set for January 1, 2026, and it is projected to have a minimal fiscal impact of less than $10,000 in each fiscal year from 2026 to 2028.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 633:3-a
HB700 text: 633:3-a