Bill > HB1432

This bill amends the definition of "abuse" in Pennsylvania's domestic relations law to provide clearer protections for individuals in family, household, or intimate partner relationships. Specifically, the bill expands the definition of abuse to include a broader range of harmful behaviors, such as attempting to cause bodily injury, placing someone in reasonable fear of imminent serious bodily injury, false imprisonment, physically or sexually abusing minor children, and engaging in a course of conduct that causes substantial emotional distress or places a person in reasonable fear of bodily injury. The bill clarifies that this expanded definition applies only to civil proceedings under the protection from abuse statute and does not affect criminal prosecutions. The modification aims to strengthen legal protections for victims by recognizing a wider range of abusive behaviors beyond physical violence, including psychological and emotional harm. The bill will take effect 60 days after its enactment, providing time for legal professionals and courts to understand and implement the updated definition.

Justice

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1432