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House approves bill clarifying that out‑of‑state protective orders bar firearm possession
Summary
Lawmakers passed a bill clarifying that protective orders issued outside Delaware can prohibit purchasing or possessing firearms in the state; members debated concerns that the PFA process can be misused in family courts and called for broader review while supporting survivor protections.
Representative Griffith brought House Bill 342 to the floor, saying the bill clarifies existing law so that protective orders (PFAs) issued in other jurisdictions also prohibit purchase and possession of firearms in Delaware.
"This bill closes a gap that created tremendous safety issues for those who were protected by these orders," Griffith said, adding the change would ensure consistent application of prohibitions on firearm possession for people subject to PFAs issued elsewhere.
Several members voiced support; Representative Spiegelman said he would back the bill but urged the General Assembly to examine how PFAs are obtained and sometimes used in family‑court proceedings. Spiegelman said the PFA process can be “too often used as a weapon in divorce cases” and recommended legislative attention to oversight and process to protect both survivors and due‑process rights.
Representative Collins recounted crime statistics and emphasized concern for clarity in laws; other members offered personal and constituent perspectives on domestic‑violence risks. Supporters said the bill strengthens protections for survivors while opponents raised procedural and rights questions.
The clerk announced the roll call with a constitutional majority and recorded the bill as passed by the House.
Next steps: The bill will proceed to enrollment and interchamber handling per legislative rules.
