PA Senate Considering Bill To Increase Penalties for PFA Violations

The Pennsylvania Senate is currently considering a bill, HB 1909, that would expand penalties for anyone who violates a protective order, known as a PFA in Pennsylvania. The House passed the bill earlier this year.

PFAs serve an important role in keeping domestic violence victims safe. They aren’t perfect, however, and the purpose of HB 1909 is to increase penalties against individuals who violate PFAs in hopes of reducing violations.

If you’re in a situation that requires a PFA, contact the LLF Law Firm Family Law Team. Our team is experienced in helping our clients safely navigate the PFA process. Call us at 888-535-3686 or fill out our online form.

What is HB 1909?

The key part of HB 1909 is increasing penalties for anyone who violates a court-ordered PFA. If passed, violations of PFAs will now become criminal, rather than civil, matters. Individuals found guilty under the law could potentially face felony convictions.

The bill specifically targets repeated violations of PFAs. The bill’s sponsors state that one of the goals of the bill is to better protect victims and prevent continuing harassment, contact, and abuse.

What Happens if Someone Violates a PFA?

As of June 2026, Pennsylvania doesn’t have any criminal charges for anyone who violates a PFA. In general, individuals who violate a PFA will be charged with contempt of court.

If convicted, an individual potentially faces up to six months in jail or a fine of up to $1000. On the civil side, PFAs and PFA violations can affect child custody and separation agreements.

One of the challenges with PFA violations is making sure both parties’ rights are protected. Individuals who are being harassed and stalked have a right to stop the abuse and be safe. At the same time, individuals accused of violating a PFA have the right to defend themselves and, in some cases, establish why they didn’t violate the PFA.

What Do I Do If Someone Violates a PFA?

If you have a PFA against someone and that person violates the PFA, you shouldn’t ignore it. In general, the first step is to make sure you and any children or family members are safe.

Individuals who have a PFA should have a copy of the order easily available. They should also consider keeping a copy with a trusted family member or friend in case they aren’t able to access the original documents.

Individuals should generally call the police to report the violation. They should also, once safe, work to gather evidence to prove the PFA was violated. This can include:

• Text messages
• Call logs
• Voicemails
• Video from door cams or similar technology
• Witness statements

The LLF Law Firm Family Law Team can help you determine what is and isn’t useful in building a case to prove a violation of a PFA. Our team can also assist in determining next steps.

Individuals can also call the Pennsylvania Coalition Against Domestic Violence (PCADV) helpline for immediate assistance. PCADV can assist with temporary emergency shelter, crisis intervention, and accompanying victims to the police, court, and medical facilities.

Protect Your Future

PFAs are one tool in helping to protect abuse victims. HB 1909, if passed, will provide one more way to enforce PFAs and keep victims safe.

The LLF Law Firm Family Law Team can help individuals who need a PFA or need to address PFA violations. If you’re a victim of domestic violence in Pennsylvania, call us at 888-535-3686 or fill out our online form.