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. It clarifies definitions related to domestic violence, including expanding the definition of "abuse" to encompass stalking, sexual assault, and emotional distress. The bill also establishes a confidential address program for qualified electors seeking orders of protection, ensuring their safety during the voter registration process. Additionally, it mandates that victims of domestic violence, stalking, and sexual assault are not responsible for legal costs associated with their cases, and it introduces a domestic violence offender treatment fund to support rehabilitation programs.

Further amendments include the establishment of procedures for obtaining emergency and temporary orders of protection, emphasizing immediate action in cases of credible threats. The bill clarifies the roles of law enforcement in petitioning for emergency orders and outlines the contents of protection orders, which can include custody arrangements and financial reimbursements. It also prohibits mutual orders of protection unless both parties acted as aggressors and allows for the extension of protection orders as deemed appropriate by the court. The bill aims to streamline the legal processes for victims seeking protection and ensures confidentiality regarding their identities and locations, while also providing guidelines for healthcare professionals in reporting abuse.

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