HB 6702 Summary

• Expands victim notification requirements by mandating probation officers notify victims and victim advocates when offenders violate probation conditions in domestic violence cases.

• Allows domestic violence and sexual assault victims to terminate rental agreements without penalty by providing written notice and documentation dated within 30-90 days (effective January 1, 2014 for sexual assault victims).

• Replaces terminology throughout statutes from "battered women" and "batterers" to "victims of domestic violence" and "persons who commit acts of family violence" for more inclusive language.

• Adds guardians ad litem to mandatory training programs for judges and court personnel on family violence policies and procedures.

• Establishes task force to study feasibility of allowing non-family members (including sexual assault and stalking victims) to obtain restraining orders, with report due February 5, 2014.

• Requires courts to provide secure rooms separate from defendants and respondents for domestic violence victims and advocates where practicable.

• Expands firearm surrender requirements to clarify that persons subject to restraining or protective orders must transfer or surrender all firearms, not just pistols and revolvers.