Protective orders: firearms and ammunition.

Assembly Member Stefani's protective order legislation expands ammunition surrender requirements and modernizes court procedures for restraining order hearings across California. The bill requires individuals subject to protective orders to relinquish both firearms and ammunition within 24 hours of being served, with proof of surrender filed within 48 hours. Law enforcement officers must now take temporary custody of ammunition, alongside firearms, when discovered during domestic violence incidents or protective order enforcement.

Beginning July 1, 2026, the Judicial Council must include notices on protective order petition forms informing parties they may appear remotely at hearings at no cost to petitioners. The legislation maintains existing procedures for law enforcement storage of surrendered items and their return upon order expiration, while adding requirements for courts to verify compliance through receipt documentation and conduct review hearings when violations are suspected.

The measure addresses implementation costs by providing reimbursement to local agencies for state-mandated activities through established procedures. It preserves limited exemptions for peace officers and others who require firearms for employment, subject to court approval and psychological evaluation. The changes apply to various protective orders, including those related to domestic violence, civil harassment, workplace violence, and gun violence prevention.