TRENTON – A measure sponsored by Senators Ellen Karcher and Fred H. Madden that would permit New Jersey to uphold domestic violence restraining orders granted in other states was approved today by the Senate.
“The fear that domestic violence survivors live with everyday – a fear that it could happen again – knows no boundaries,” said Senator Karcher, D-Monmouth and Mercer. “However, under our current system, a domestic violence restraining order is only enforced in the state it was issued. We need to provide a continuous shield of protection for the victims of domestic violence, and we must uphold restraining orders issued in other states to accomplish that goal.”
The Senators’ measure, S-2161, would allow the State to uphold domestic violence orders granted in other jurisdictions. Under the bill, violating another state’s domestic violence order would constitute a fourth degree crime, and carry penalties including up to 18 months of jail time and fines of up to $10,000.
“A person who was attacked by someone close to them, and who survived the trials of getting court assistance in another state, should not have to worry that their existing protection order will be invalid as soon as they cross over from Pennsylvania or New York,” said Senator Madden, D-Camden and Gloucester. “Under this bill, survivors of domestic violence who look to re-start their lives in New Jersey can rest assured that they will receive the full protection of our laws and court system.”
This measure was approved by the Senate Judiciary Committee on February 28. It now awaits consideration in the Assembly.