Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that expands the definition of domestic violence to include "coercive and controlling behavior".

Highlights:

• Expands the definition of domestic violence to include "coercive and controlling behavior" (Sec. 2).

• Defines “coercive and controlling behavior” as a pattern of conduct that recklessly causes of has the effect of causing a reasonable individual to (Sec. 2):

• Fear for their or their families safety; or

• Suffer substantial emotional distress.

• Specifies that coercive behavior does not include the following (Sec. 2):

• Conduct between a child under 18 years of age and their parent or legal guardian involving the parents constitutional right to care, custody, and control

• Conduct taken to protect themselves or their family or household members, or an animal that is connected to the family from risk of present or future harm; and

• Other constitutionally protected activity.

• Specifies that the provisions of this bill shall take effect July 1, 2024 (Sec. 3).

Full Bill Text