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WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) introduced the Electronic Service for Effectiveness, Reduction of Violence, and Improved Court Efficiency (E-SERVICE) Act. The legislation updates how survivors of domestic violence can obtain protection orders by establishing a pilot program grant to explore the electronic service of protection orders.

Under the current system, the process of serving protective orders against abusers can be difficult and slow, putting people at risk when the abuser falls through the cracks. Domestic abusers are often able to evade delivery of protective orders, making the orders useless and unenforceable.

“Individuals in abusive situations shouldn’t be forced to rely only on in-person serving for protective orders to be delivered to an abuser,” said Dingell. “Civil protection orders can mean life and death for millions of Americans. That is why we must use every option possible to ensure protective orders can be properly delivered and be an effective tool. It’s time for our judicial system to come into the 21st Century.”

“The delivery of civil protection orders must be conducted in a safe, swift, and effective manner,” said Fitzpatrick. “The current of method of protection order delivery is outdated and unreliable, which can place women in abusive situations at an even greater risk. I am proud to support this bipartisan legislation to modernize our justice system and provide the tools necessary to protect survivors of domestic violence.” 

Under the E-SERVICE Act, the Department of Justice can award up to 10 pilot programs to state and tribal courts, offering them the opportunity to explore the feasibility and effectiveness of serving protection orders electronically. The awarded courts will consult with various local stakeholders in developing and implementing the program, including judges, law enforcement, attorneys, technology experts, and victims’ advocates. The courts are required to report to Congress on the effectiveness, technology utilized, due process concerns, and best practices that could be considered for nationwide implementation.

Senators Chris Coons (D-DE) and Dan Sullivan (R-AK) introduced similar legislation in the Senate earlier this summer.

Dingell has long advocated on behalf of those who have suffered domestic abuse. Earlier this year, Dingell authored two provisions that were included in the House-passed version of the re-authorization of the Violence Against Women Act. The Senate is yet to schedule a vote on the re-authorization of the Violence Against Women Act.

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