An Act relative to violent protection order violations
This bill amends Massachusetts law to clarify the rights of individuals who have obtained violent protection orders. It requires the state's public safety office to create and distribute educational materials explaining lawful defense options, including the use of force, necessary permits, and how to report violations. Additionally, the legislation explicitly states that a protection order holder is not required to retreat and may use deadly or less-than-deadly force if they reasonably believe they or others are in imminent danger of serious injury or death. The bill further ensures that acting in lawful defense under these conditions will not lead to arrest, prosecution, or the loss of firearm licenses, nor will it result in civil liability for any injuries or death caused to the alleged violator.
Bill status
passed
3 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2023
Committee Review
Feb 2023
Senate Passage
Feb 2023
Governor
Introduced Feb 16, 2023
Last action Jun 5, 2024
Floor votes
How they voted
This bill passed the Senate. No roll call record of that vote is available.
Full legislative history
Actions timeline
Total actions
5
Key actions
1
Committee
1
Feb 16, 2023
Upper · Passed
Senate concurred
upper
Feb 16, 2023
Committee
Referred to the committee on The Judiciary
lower
1 primary · 2 co-sponsors
Sponsors
Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Susan Gifford
RRepublican
Co
Joe McKenna
RRepublican
Co
Steve Xiarhos
RRepublican
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