The bill amends sections 15-15-1 and 15-15-3 of the General Laws in Chapter 15-15, "Domestic Abuse Prevention," by introducing a new definition for "household pet," defined as a domesticated or tamed animal kept for companionship or pleasure. This definition is added to the existing list of definitions in the chapter. Additionally, the bill provides for the protection of household pets in domestic abuse cases, allowing custody of the pets to be awarded to the plaintiff and enabling the enforcement of restraining orders or other necessary injunctive relief.

Moreover, the bill outlines the procedures for individuals experiencing domestic abuse or sexual exploitation to file complaints in family court and request protective orders. These orders can include various restrictions on the defendant, such as prohibiting contact, vacating the household, and surrendering firearms. The bill also updates legal language regarding the transfer and possession of firearms in relation to protective orders, ensuring that individuals prohibited from possessing firearms must surrender them and cannot transfer them back to the restrained individual. It establishes penalties for violations, including felony charges for knowingly transferring firearms to a restrained person, and emphasizes timely hearings and notifications to protect the rights and safety of domestic abuse victims. The act will take effect upon passage.