Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB221

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/23
• Refer: 1/31/23

Caption

In protection from abuse, further providing for definitions and for relief.

Impact

Should SB221 be enacted, it will significantly modify Title 23 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes that deals with domestic relations and protection from abuse. The inclusion of electronic monitoring devices as a stipulation in the granting of protection orders would enhance the capabilities of law enforcement to track offenders. It aims to provide a proactive measure to protect victims by ensuring that offenders are closely monitored, which can prevent further incidents of abuse and reinforce the seriousness of the consequences of violating a protection order.

Summary

Senate Bill 221 aims to enhance the protective measures available to victims of domestic abuse in Pennsylvania by amending existing laws. The bill introduces a definition for 'electronic monitoring device' and provisions for its implementation in cases where defendants present a substantial risk of recidivism after a protection order has been issued. By mandating the use of electronic monitoring, the bill seeks to bolster the enforcement of safety measures for victims, ensuring they remain informed and protected from potential violations of protection orders.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB221 appears to be generally supportive among lawmakers and advocacy groups focused on domestic violence issues. Proponents advocate for the bill as a necessary step in creating a safer environment for victims, expressing hope that electronic monitoring will deter perpetrators from violating orders of protection. However, there may be concerns about privacy implications and the effectiveness of electronic monitoring in truly preventing domestic violence, which could lead to a mixed response from the community as the bill progresses.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the practical implications of implementing electronic monitoring. Critics might raise concerns about how data from electronic monitoring devices is managed, the costs associated with such programs, and whether they genuinely make victims safer. Furthermore, there may be debates about the balance between the rights of the defendants and the need for victim protection. As these discussions unfold, the bill may face scrutiny over how it addresses potential shortcomings in the current legal framework without overburdening law enforcement or infringing on civil liberties.