Bill > LD950

This bill modifies Maine's existing protection from abuse order law to explicitly allow children to file protection orders on their own behalf, without requiring a parent, guardian, or state representative to file on their behalf. The bill changes language from "minor child" to simply "child" and expands the circumstances under which a child can seek a protection order. These circumstances now include protection from various types of abuse and harmful conduct, such as stalking, sexual crimes, unauthorized dissemination of private images, sex trafficking, sexual exploitation, harassment by electronic communication, and other civil causes of action. Importantly, the bill removes restrictions that previously required the perpetrator to be a family member, household member, dating partner, or related individual, thus broadening the potential scope of protection for children. By allowing children to directly file protection orders, the legislation aims to increase access to legal protection for minors who may be experiencing abuse or harmful conduct, giving them more agency in seeking safety and legal recourse.

Justice

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=950&snum=132