Bill > HB208

This bill establishes a new legal process in Virginia for obtaining "anti-harassment orders," which are defined as orders to protect individuals from ongoing, purposeful actions or communications that cause alarm or distress and serve no legitimate purpose. The bill outlines procedures for issuing temporary anti-harassment orders, which can prohibit contact, physical presence, and other actions that constitute harassment, and can also grant possession of companion animals. These temporary orders are valid until a full hearing, which must be scheduled promptly, and can be extended for short periods if the protected person is unable to file a petition themselves. The bill also details the process for issuing more permanent anti-harassment orders, which can last up to two years and be extended, and specifies that violations of these orders are punishable as contempt of court. Importantly, the bill clarifies that an anti-harassment order is not considered a restraining order for the purpose of disqualifying someone from obtaining a concealed handgun permit, and it also includes provisions for enforcing similar orders issued by other states and for compensating attorneys or guardians ad litem appointed to represent respondents in these cases.

Education, Justice

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20261/HB208