Bill > HB1909

This bill amends Pennsylvania law to increase criminal penalties for offenses committed during a violation of a protection from abuse order. Specifically, the bill enhances the grading (severity) of various criminal offenses like simple assault, reckless endangerment, terroristic threats, harassment, stalking, unlawful restraint, false imprisonment, criminal coercion, indecent assault, and disorderly conduct when they occur simultaneously with a violation of a protective order. For example, a simple assault that occurs during a protection from abuse order violation would be elevated from a misdemeanor of the second degree to a misdemeanor of the first degree. Similarly, some offenses could be upgraded to felonies of the third degree when committed in violation of a protective order. The bill aims to provide stronger legal protections for victims by imposing more serious consequences on individuals who commit crimes while simultaneously violating protective orders. The changes will take effect 60 days after the bill's enactment, and they apply to various sections of Pennsylvania's criminal statutes related to assault, kidnapping, sexual offenses, and disorderly conduct.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://www.palegis.us/legislation/bills/2025/hb1909