Texas House Bill HB1986

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to protective orders against dating violence.

Impact

The changes proposed by HB1986 apply specifically to applications filed for protective orders on or after the effective date of the Act. This means that any protective orders sought prior to the amendment will be governed by the previous law, allowing for a smoother transition and avoiding any retroactive application that could complicate ongoing legal proceedings. Overall, the update is designed to improve the clarity and efficacy of legal protections available to victims of dating violence, supporting their immediate safety and legal recourse.

Summary

House Bill 1986 relates to protective orders against dating violence, amending the definition of dating violence within the Texas Family Code. The bill clarifies that dating violence is an act intended to result in physical harm or that creates an imminent threat of such harm during a dating relationship. This legislative intent reflects a growing recognition of the complexities surrounding intimate partner violence and aims to provide better protection for individuals involved in such situations. The amendments delineate specific actions that can lead to the issuance of protective orders, enhancing the legal framework around the protection of victims.

Contention

While the bill serves an important function in enhancing legal protections against dating violence, there may be points of contention regarding the thorough definition of dating violence and its implications for various types of relationships. Some stakeholders might voice concerns about the adequacy of measures in place to support victims after the issuance of a protective order, particularly regarding enforcement and resources available to survivors. Additionally, there could be discussions around the proper training for law enforcement concerning the new definitions and the handling of protective order requests.