The bill amends Section 85.025(a-1) of the Family Code to allow courts to issue protective orders against family violence that can last for more than two years, potentially for the lives of the individuals protected. The new language specifies that these orders apply only to individuals found to have committed family violence sufficient to protect the applicant and their family or household members. The previous requirements for extending the duration of protective orders, which included specific conditions such as committing a felony involving family violence or causing serious bodily injury, have been removed.

Additionally, Section 85.001(d) of the Family Code is repealed, indicating a significant change in the legal framework surrounding protective orders. The bill stipulates that the changes will only apply to protective orders rendered on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025. Orders issued before this date will continue to be governed by the existing law.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Family Code 85.001 (Family Code 85)