Senator Bolick's Bill Strengthening Protections for Domestic Violence Victims Passes Senate
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, February 16, 2026
PHOENIX, ARIZONA—Victims of domestic violence in Arizona are one step closer to stronger legal protections today as the Arizona Senate advances legislation, sponsored by Senator Shawnna Bolick, to support innocent Arizonans impacted by violent crime.
SB 1211 requires courts to issue lifetime no-contact injunctions against defendants convicted of felony aggravated harassment involving domestic violence, when requested by a victim or prosecutor. The injunction takes effect immediately at sentencing, prohibits the offender from contacting the victim, and remains in place for the offender's natural lifetime unless a court determines it should be lifted under limited circumstances. The legislation also allows victims from past cases to request the same protection at no cost, ensuring safety measures are not limited by financial barriers and that victims are not denied protection because of when a case occurred.
Recent domestic-violence cases across Arizona underscore the urgency of strengthening protections for victims. In January, police investigated a suspected murder-suicide involving a couple inside a Gilbert home, one of several deadly domestic-related incidents reported across the Valley in recent weeks. Authorities also responded to domestic-violence situations that escalated into broader public safety crises, including a Flagstaff standoff that began as a domestic-violence call and ultimately led to a deadly helicopter crash during the law enforcement response. These incidents highlight how quickly domestic disputes can turn dangerous for victims, families, and first responders alike.
"Domestic violence is happening in communities across Arizona, often behind closed doors and out of public view," said Senator Bolick. " This reform is critical because victims of domestic violence often face continued harassment or intimidation long after a case ends, and permanent legal protections help prevent repeat harm. Victims deserve to know their government is on their side and that the law will protect them when they come forward seeking safety. This legislation strengthens safeguards for innocent victims and helps ensure the system responds when people need protection the most."
Senator Bolick has been a consistent advocate for victims of crime at the Legislature, advancing policies focused on accountability, public safety, and stronger protections for vulnerable individuals and families. Lawmakers from both parties supported the measure, reflecting broad agreement that protecting victims of domestic violence is a fundamental public safety responsibility affecting families and neighborhoods statewide.
The bill now advances to the House for consideration.
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For more information, contact:
Kim Quintero
Director of Communications | Arizona State Senate Republican Caucus