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House Approves Bill to Curb Domestic Violence in Military

To help stem increased violence on military bases, on October 15, the House approved, by voice vote, a bill (H.R. 5590) that would allow civilian court protective orders to be applied on bases. H.R. 5590 was considered under suspension of the rules, which limits debate, bars amendments, and requires a two-thirds majority vote for passage.

Under current law, victims of domestic violence who live on military bases are not able to receive protection under civilian-issued restraining orders. Sponsored by Rep. Robin Hayes (R-NC), H.R. 5590 would update the criminal code to include military facilities within civilian court jurisdictions.