The bill amends the General Laws in Chapter 8-8.1 entitled "Domestic Assault" to enhance protective orders and penalties related to domestic abuse cases. It requires individuals restrained under a domestic violence protective order to surrender all firearms within 24 hours and provide proof of surrender or attest to not possessing firearms within 72 hours. The bill allows for the sale or transfer of surrendered firearms and imposes a felony charge for violations of these provisions. It also outlines procedures for the return of firearms once protective orders expire, provided the individual is not otherwise prohibited from possessing firearms, and exempts sworn peace officers and active military members from the prohibition of possessing firearms due to a domestic violence restraining order.

Starting July 1, 2025, the bill mandates that any violation of a protective order will be prosecuted by an attorney who has completed specialized domestic violence prosecution training and updates this training every four years. The training must align with national best practices and be eligible for continuing legal education credits. The bill also clarifies that violations of protective orders are misdemeanors punishable by fines and imprisonment, and it emphasizes that domestic violence charges should not be dismissed or delayed due to other civil proceedings. The act will take effect upon passage, meaning the changes will be implemented immediately after the bill is signed into law.

Statutes affected:
2833  SUB A: 8-8.1-3, 12-29-4, 15-15-3
2833: 8-8.1-3, 12-29-4, 15-15-3