LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – A package of bills passed by the Michigan House would eliminate fees for serving certain personal protection orders (PPOS), removing a potential financial barrier for people seeking protection.

House Bills 5120, 5121 and 6033 passed with bipartisan support Tuesday. The legislation would require a law enforcement agency designated by the court to serve certain PPOs at no cost to the person who requested the order. It would also set clearer requirements for serving the orders. Michigan Legislature bill text.

Supporters, including the Michigan Domestic and Sexual Violence Prevention and Treatment Board, say service fees can create another obstacle for people trying to leave an abusive situation.

State Reps. Helena Scott (D-Detroit) and Sarah Lightner (R-Springport) introduced bills in the package.

“A protection order needs to be more than a piece of paper,” Lightner said. “When a judge issues an order to protect someone from stalking, harassment or violence, we should have a system that works quickly and keeps that person informed.”

The bills now head to the Senate. Similar legislation has moved through that chamber; differences would have to be resolved before a final package could go to the governor.