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Malloy Proposes Further Protections For Domestic Violence Victims

FAIRFIELD COUNTY, Conn. – Gov. Dannel P. Malloy has announced that he will sponsor legislation designed to increase the protections on victims of domestic violence in Connecticut.

Gov. Dannel Malloy wants guns taken away from anyone issued a temporary restraining order.

Gov. Dannel Malloy wants guns taken away from anyone issued a temporary restraining order.

Photo Credit: File Photo

This law would prohibit possession of firearms for anyone who is subject to a temporary restraining order.

When temporary restraining orders are delivered under current state law, a hearing must be held before a judge can issue a permanent one. Such a hearing can come weeks after a temporary order is issued, according to a press release from Malloy’s office.

“We know that the period of time immediately following a domestic violence victim’s application for a restraining order is one of the most volatile, and access to a firearm in that situation presents an additional, outstanding threat,” said Malloy. “If a judge determines that a victim is in enough danger that they should be granted a temporary restraining order, that victim should not have to wait until they are fully protected.”

The governor’s proposal also will require that individuals relinquish their firearms shortly after the judge’s temporary restraining order is issued.

“This legislation is critical to protect families from domestic violence,” said Rep. William Tong (D-Stamford, Darien). “Families, particularly children, should not have to wait weeks for a court hearing when they are in any kind of danger because another person has access to a gun. The gun can always be returned later to the rightful owner, but the bullet that could injure or kill someone cannot be unfired.”

Tong also serves as Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee.  

This legislation is part of a package of proposals that Malloy will introduce later in February. 

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