WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

AB 451

Law enforcement policies: restraining orders.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Cottie Petrie-Norris

AB 451 mandates California law enforcement to establish clear policies for serving restraining orders, ensuring timely action and firearm relinquishment for public safety.

Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 693, Statutes of 2025.
#lawenforcementpolicies #restrainingorders
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · AB 451

Summary of AB 451: Law Enforcement Policies on Restraining Orders

Bill Overview

Bill Number: AB 451
Title: Law Enforcement Policies: Restraining Orders
Status: Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 693, Statutes of 2025
Introduced: September 25, 2025
Author: Representative Petrie-Norris

Purpose and Intent

AB 451 aims to enhance the effectiveness and consistency of law enforcement agencies in California regarding the service and enforcement of court protection and restraining orders. The bill mandates the development of written policies and standards that ensure safe and effective handling of these orders, particularly those that include firearm access restrictions.

Key Provisions

  • Policy Development Requirement:
    Each municipal police department, county sheriff’s department, the California Highway Patrol, and police departments of the University of California and California State University must develop and implement written policies by January 1, 2027.

  • Standard Procedures:
    The policies must include:

    • A standard process for timely service of restraining orders.
    • Compliance with California laws governing the service and enforcement of protection orders.
    • Protocols for the relinquishment of firearms by individuals subject to these orders.

  • Specific Steps for Law Enforcement:
    Officers must:

    • Complete and file proof of service forms within one business day of serving a restraining order.
    • Ensure that information about the service is entered into the California Restraining and Protective Order System.
    • Request immediate relinquishment of firearms and other prohibited items at the time of service.

  • Reimbursement for Costs:
    If the Commission on State Mandates determines that the bill imposes costs on local agencies, the state will reimburse those costs as per statutory provisions.

Impact

  • Affected Entities:
    The bill directly impacts law enforcement agencies across California, requiring them to adopt new policies and procedures. It also affects individuals subject to restraining orders, particularly regarding firearm possession.

  • State Mandate:
    By expanding the responsibilities of local law enforcement, the bill establishes a state-mandated local program, which may lead to additional costs for local agencies.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was passed with a majority vote in the Assembly (Ayes: 88, Noes: 7) and subsequently chaptered into law on October 13, 2025.

Conclusion

AB 451 represents a significant step towards improving the enforcement of restraining orders in California, ensuring that law enforcement agencies operate under consistent and effective guidelines. The bill's focus on firearm relinquishment is particularly noteworthy, reflecting a commitment to enhancing public safety in domestic violence situations.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.