Pennsylvania House Bill HB1210

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/19/23
• Refer: 5/19/23
• Refer: 6/14/23
• Report Pass: 6/29/23
• Refer: 6/29/23
• Report Pass: 7/6/23
• Engrossed: 7/6/23
• Refer: 7/17/23
• Enrolled: 11/13/24
• Chaptered: 11/18/24
• Passed: 11/18/24

Caption

In protection from abuse, further providing for relief, for emergency relief by minor judiciary and for arrest for violation of order.

Impact

The proposed modifications are expected to significantly impact how protection from abuse cases are handled across Pennsylvania. By enabling judges and hearing officers to offer emergency protection when the court cannot, the bill seeks to close gaps that currently leave vulnerable individuals without immediate recourse in critical situations. Additionally, the inclusion of provisions for companion animals acknowledges the often-overlooked role these pets play in the safety and well-being of domestic violence victims, thereby advancing the state's protective measures to encompass all household members.

Summary

House Bill 1210 aims to amend Pennsylvania's Title 23 relating to domestic relations by enhancing provisions for protection from abuse cases. This includes stipulations for emergency relief by the minor judiciary when a court is unavailable, which ensures that individuals facing imminent abuse can seek immediate protection. The bill addresses concerns related to both human and companion animal safety during instances of domestic abuse, thereby emphasizing the importance of holistic protection measures in family law. Moreover, the revisions will modernize the processes for issuing protection orders and the conditions under which law enforcement may act to arrest violators of such orders without a warrant under specific circumstances.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1210 appears generally positive among lawmakers aiming to enhance domestic safety measures. Supporters argue that these changes are necessary to adapt to evolving societal norms regarding the safety of victims, not only in terms of human welfare but also recognizing the emotional bonds that victims maintain with their pets. However, there have also been raises of concern regarding the practicality of implementing these emergency relief measures effectively within existing judicial frameworks, which may lead to discussions about resource allocation and training for minor judiciary members.

Contention

While there is broad support for enhancing protections in domestic abuse cases, discussions in legislative committees may reveal points of contention related to how the emergency relief provisions could be operationalized. Lawmakers might express concerns regarding the adequacy of training for hearing officers and law enforcement to ensure that they can effectively manage such urgent situations. Furthermore, there could be debates on the potential implications for due process if orders are issued in ex parte situations where defendants are not initially represented or heard. Through these discussions, advocates for both victims' rights and fair judicial process may voice their perspectives, shaping the evolution of HB 1210.