Bill > HB2339

This bill updates Missouri state law regarding protective orders by expanding and clarifying definitions related to domestic violence, abuse, and protective order proceedings. The bill introduces several key new definitions, most notably "coercive control", which is defined as unreasonably interfering with a person's free will and personal liberty through actions like isolating them from support networks, controlling their communications and movements, or compelling them through force or threats. The bill also broadens the definition of "disturbing the peace" to include actions committed through electronic means and third parties, and expands the understanding of "family or household member" to include a wide range of relationship types. Additionally, the bill provides more comprehensive definitions for terms like "abuse", "harassment", and "stalking", which now include specific examples and nuanced descriptions of behaviors that can constitute these actions. The legislation aims to provide clearer legal guidance for courts when issuing protective orders, ensuring that a wider range of controlling and harmful behaviors can be addressed through the legal system, with a particular focus on recognizing subtle forms of psychological and emotional abuse.

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB2339&year=2026&code=R