Panel approves court tool to move domestic‑violence victims off shared wireless plans

Senate File 42-57, revised by an author’s delete‑everything amendment, would create a court-ordered mechanism for victims of domestic abuse to be transferred off a shared wireless plan or to receive a substitute telephone number.

Senator Lats and sponsors described the change as an ‘‘escape hatch’’ for victims whose accounts are controlled by an abuser, giving courts authority to transfer billing authority, assign substitute numbers, remove a petitioner from a plan, and direct wireless providers to complete transfers by the end of the next billing cycle. The amendment waives filing fees for the transfer proceeding and includes a confidentiality requirement limiting provider disclosures to what is necessary to comply with the order.

The measure also includes provisions for unpaid balances (the prior account holder remains liable for charges incurred before the order) and gives providers immunity when they comply with court orders. Sponsors said the order can be issued in the same proceeding as an order for protection or in a separate petition and can be tailored for minors or a legal guardian.

Supporters said shared accounts are a common tool for abusers to maintain control; one senator described instances where callers reported phones as ‘‘lost or stolen’’ after an abuser used account controls to shut off service. The committee adopted the amendment and voted to recommend SF 42-57 as amended to the Senate floor.

What happens next: With the committee recommendation, SF 42-57 will move to the Senate calendar. Authors and stakeholders may refine statutory language or implementation details on provider procedures and outstanding balances during conference work or floor consideration.