The bill seeks to rename the "Family Violence Protection Act" to the "Protection Against Abuse and Violence Act" and introduces several key amendments to enhance the legal framework surrounding domestic violence in New Mexico. It clarifies definitions related to domestic violence, expands the definition of "abuse" to include stalking and sexual assault, and allows qualified electors who have filed for an order of protection to participate in a confidential address program for their safety during voter registration. The bill also ensures that victims are not responsible for the costs associated with legal proceedings related to their cases and emphasizes the importance of confidentiality and support for victims navigating the legal system.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws regarding orders of protection, allowing minors aged thirteen and older to petition for protection orders under certain circumstances and mandating that law enforcement officers can petition for emergency orders on behalf of victims. It prohibits the court from requiring the protected party to undergo treatment or counseling and clarifies that restrained parties cannot possess firearms while the order is in effect. The bill also enhances the responsibilities of law enforcement in responding to domestic abuse incidents and establishes strict confidentiality measures to protect the identities of individuals under protection orders. Overall, the bill aims to strengthen protections for victims of domestic violence and streamline the processes for obtaining and enforcing protective orders.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 1-4-5.1, 29-15-2, 30-1-15, 31-12-12, 32A-2-3, 30-2-1, 40-4-7.2, 40-13-1, 40-13-2, 40-13-3, 40-13-3.1, 40-13-3.2, 40-13-4, 40-13-5, 40-13-5.1, 40-13-6, 40-13-7, 40-13-7.1, 40-13-9, 40-13-10, 40-13-12, 40-13B-2, 50-4A-2, 40-13-1.1