HB425 Summary

• Clarifies definitions of domestic violence offenses including first, second, and third degree crimes, with specific victim categories (current/former spouses, parents, step-parents, children, dating partners, household members).

• Establishes enhanced minimum sentences for domestic violence offenses when committed while violating a protection order or in the presence of a child under 14 years old, including mandatory imprisonment periods without suspension or reduction.

• Creates domestic violence by strangulation or suffocation as a Class B felony with specific definitions for intentional asphyxia by neck compression or airway obstruction.

• Increases penalties for violating domestic violence protection orders to Class A misdemeanor with minimum 30 days imprisonment for second violation and Class C felony for third or subsequent violation, plus $50 additional fine per violation.

• Clarifies arrest procedures allowing officers to arrest without warrant for domestic violence crimes based on probable cause, requires 48-hour detention and bail hearings, mandates victim notification within 24 hours, and repeals Section 13A-6-139.1 definitions section.