Senator Bolick Secures Lifetime Protections for Domestic Violence Victims as SB 1211 Becomes Law

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, March 30, 2026

PHOENIX, ARIZONA—Senator Shawnna Bolick is strengthening protections for victims of domestic violence as her legislation, SB 1211, is now law, ensuring repeat offenders can no longer exploit gaps in Arizona's justice system.

SB 1211, signed this past Friday evening, builds on Arizona's existing protections under Kayleigh's Law by expanding the state's lifetime injunction statute to include felony aggravated harassment involving domestic violence. It gives victims the ability to obtain permanent protection from abusers who have demonstrated a pattern of harmful behavior.

Aggravated harassment is not a one-time offense. It often involves individuals who have already violated court orders or have prior domestic violence convictions against the same victim. These cases frequently include repeated contact through calls, messages, or electronic communication that causes ongoing fear, intimidation, and emotional distress. Until now, victims in these situations were not eligible for the same lifetime protections granted in other serious cases. SB 1211 closes that gap. Courts are now required to issue a lifetime injunction at sentencing upon request, ensuring abusers cannot contact their victims and allowing survivors to move forward without fear.

"Victims of domestic violence deserve lasting protection, not temporary fixes," said Senator Bolick. "Kayleigh's Law was created to give victims of serious crimes long-term protection, and this builds on that foundation. Aggravated harassment is often part of a repeated pattern of abuse, and these victims deserve the same level of protection. This law puts victims first, holds repeat offenders accountable, and gives survivors the peace of mind they need to rebuild their lives."

The legislation was inspired by advocates working directly with victims, including leaders at Amberly's Place, a nonprofit center that brings law enforcement, medical care, and victim advocacy together in one place for survivors of domestic violence and abuse. They identified the need to strengthen Arizona law after seeing firsthand how existing protections fell short.

SB 1211 ensures that victims of repeated harassment receive the same level of protection as victims of other serious offenses. The injunction takes effect immediately at sentencing and remains in place for the offender's lifetime unless limited circumstances apply. This legislation takes effect 90 days after the Arizona Legislature adjourns the current session.

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For more information, contact:

Kim Quintero

Director of Communications | Arizona State Senate Republican Caucus

kquintero@azleg.gov