AN ACT relating to coercive control.

Amend KRS 403.720, relating to orders of protection, to define "coercive control" and "stalking"; amend the definition of "domestic violence and abuse" to include coercive control of a family member or member of an unmarried couple; amend KRS 456.010 to define "coercive control"; amend the definition of "dating violence and abuse" to include coercive control of a person with whom the perpetrator is or has been in a dating relationship; amend KRS 209A.122 to require…

Introduced: January 7, 2025

Last action: February 27, 2025

2nd Reading, To Rules

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This bill adds "coercive control" as a recognized form of domestic violence and dating violence under Kentucky law, meaning a person can seek an order of protection based on coercive or controlling behavior, not just physical violence. It also defines "stalking" in the same section of law and requires courts to track data on protection order cases involving coercive control and whether those involved had legal representation. Who it may affect: people experiencing domestic violence or dating violence, family members or unmarried couples seeking orders of protection, and those navigating the courts without a lawyer.

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