Subcommittee approves tougher penalties for repeat injunction violators, including mandatory jail time

Representative Plaikin presented CS for HB 643, saying the bill strengthens injunction laws in three ways: it enhances penalty from a first-degree misdemeanor to a third-degree felony upon a second or subsequent violation, adds assault and battery to the list of prior convictions that can trigger an enhanced penalty, and requires the court to sentence a person convicted of such an offense to a minimum of 10 days in county jail for each violation.

Christine Marin, who identified herself as a survivor of domestic violence, testified in support and recounted that her own restraining order was violated dozens of times and that she lost her son as a result of one violation. Committee debate acknowledged the gravity of repeat injunction violations; Representative Gottlieb restated concerns about removing judicial discretion and called the mandatory minimum a potential unfunded burden on sheriffs and county jails. Representative Plaikin said the bill will provide a "wake-up call" and indicated penalties could vary depending on circumstances.

The committee recorded a roll-call vote of 14 yays, 1 nay; the chair announced the bill will be reported favorably and advance in the legislative process.