An Act amending Title 23 (Domestic Relations) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in protection from abuse, further providing for definitions.

HB 1432 amends Pennsylvania's domestic relations code to update the legal definition of "abuse" in protection from abuse proceedings. It adds specific language clarifying that "abuse" includes knowingly engaging in a course of conduct (like unwanted following) that causes substantial emotional distress or places someone in reasonable fear of bodily injury. This change directly affects individuals seeking protection orders under Title 23, ensuring the definition aligns with current legal standards for civil protection cases, while explicitly stating the definition does not apply to criminal prosecutions.