Threats of harm considered cause for protection orders

A bill modifying the definition of domestic abuse in relation to protection orders was passed March 30.

LB310, introduced by Lincoln Sen. Amanda McGill, makes a credible threat a reason for granting a protection order. Violating a protection order—currently a Class II misdemeanor—will be a Class I misdemeanor. Subsequent violations will be considered a Class IV felony.

The bill was returned to select file March 27 for the adoption of an amendment containing provisions of two other bills.

LB1056, introduced by Omaha Sen. Pete Pirsch, deems that a respondent of a protection order has been served notice of the order if he or she is present at a hearing. If the respondent has been properly served with the ex parte order and fails to appear at the required hearing, the temporary order shall be deemed to be granted.

LB920, introduced by McGill, contained additional provisions allowing a petitioner to request a hearing, as well as federal requirements further preventing offenders from carrying firearms.

The amendment was adopted 46-0 and LB310 was re-advanced to final reading by voice vote.

The bill passed March 30 on a vote of 42-0.