S.B. No. 2196 amends Article 17.292(j) of the Code of Criminal Procedure regarding the duration of emergency protection orders. The bill specifies that an order for emergency protection issued under Subsection (a) or (b)(1) will remain in effect for up to 91 days, but not less than 61 days after issuance. Additionally, an order issued under Subsection (b)(2) will remain effective for up to 121 days, with a minimum duration of 91 days. The bill also mandates that the defendant must be served a copy of the order by the magistrate or their designee, and a record of this service must be maintained.

The changes introduced by this bill will only apply to emergency protection orders issued on or after its effective date of September 1, 2025. Orders issued prior to this date will continue to be governed by the existing law. This legislative update aims to clarify and extend the duration of emergency protection orders to better serve victims and ensure their safety.