The bill aims to improve the effectiveness of judicial orders as harm reduction tools for survivors of abuse while enhancing law enforcement's enforcement capabilities. It amends several sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) and introduces new provisions to streamline the process for obtaining protection orders. Key changes include allowing electronic submissions of protection order petitions, enabling petitioners to track their petitions electronically, and ensuring that no fees are charged for filing or service of process. The bill also prioritizes the review of ex parte temporary protection orders, prohibits conflicting provisions in protection orders, and emphasizes confidentiality by requiring the use of a confidential document to identify parties involved.

Additionally, the bill addresses the issuance, renewal, and modification of protection orders, allowing courts to impose distance restrictions related to pets and to restrict abusive litigation against petitioners. It establishes criteria for the renewal and modification of protection orders, ensuring that the burden of proof lies with the respondent. The bill also introduces amendments regarding firearm possession, stipulating that a restrained person cannot modify or terminate an ex parte protection order without notifying the protected party, and expands the definition of unlawful firearm possession. Furthermore, it mandates that all protection orders issued after December 31, 2025, must be typewritten, and it sets an effective date for the provisions of March 31, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 7.105.105, 7.105.405, 7.105.500, 9.41.040
Substitute Bill: 7.105.105, 7.105.405, 7.105.500, 9.41.040
Engrossed Substitute: 7.105.105, 7.105.405, 7.105.500, 9.41.040
Bill as Passed Legislature: 7.105.105, 7.105.405, 7.105.500, 9.41.040
Session Law: 7.105.105, 7.105.405, 7.105.500, 9.41.040