Parents could seek protection orders for teens against other teens

Parents or guardians could ask Superior Court for an order protecting their child from another minor. Both minors must be ages 14–17. Dating or domestic cases would cover certain crimes, including assault or threats. Other cases would cover specified sexual misconduct or attempts, stalking, or online harassment. Dating or domestic cases involving harm by a parent, guardian, caregiver, or sibling would instead have to be reported to the Department of Children and Families. Orders would not depend on juvenile charges being filed. These rules would take effect on the first day of the 13th month following enactment.

Courts could limit a teen’s contact or social media use and would require weapon surrender in final orders. A final order would require a court finding or admission that the teen committed a covered act. Final orders would also bar the teen from owning or accessing guns or other weapons. Knowingly or deliberately breaking a temporary or final order would be an offense, with a higher charge if the act also breaks another criminal law.

The state would set aside money for courts to carry out the program. The money would come from the state General Fund and go to the Administrative Office of the Courts. The Administrative Director of the Courts would certify the amount needed. The Treasury’s budget director would have to approve the amount. The funding provision would take effect on the first day of the 13th month following enactment.