HB 5496 Summary

• Permits employers to seek restraining orders on behalf of employees who have suffered unlawful violence or credible threats of violence at the workplace, effective October 1, 2010.

• Allows courts to issue restraining orders protecting employees and animals at any workplace of the employer, with orders not to exceed six months but renewable upon motion.

• Requires courts to hold hearings within 14 days of application and allows ex parte orders if an immediate danger is alleged; service of notice on respondent must occur at least five days before hearing.

• Violations of workplace restraining orders constitute criminal trespass in the first degree, punishable by up to one year imprisonment and/or a $2,000 fine.

• Eliminates court entry fees for applications seeking restraining orders under this section and for modifications or extensions of such orders.