STATEHOUSE (April 15, 2026) – State Rep. Ryan Lauer (R-Columbus) joined Governor Mike Braun and fellow legislators for the ceremonial signing of a new law he authored to strengthen protections for victims.
House Enrolled Act 1286 gives courts the ability to consider military protective orders in civil protective order cases, ensuring courts have all the relevant facts and background in these cases. Protective orders, issued by a civil court in the state, are used to legally separate victims of harassment and domestic abuse from their abusers. Lauer said without clear guidelines, orders issued outside the state's purview may not be considered in a state civil court.
"When a victim of domestic violence goes to court seeking a protective order, they should have every tool ready and available to them," Lauer said. "By creating a clear guideline for civil courts in Indiana, victims can more easily seek and receive the protection they need and deserve."
Lauer said the new law also sets guidelines on how to consider protective orders issued in Canada, meaning victims who relocate to Indiana can do so without losing a vital legal protection.
To learn more about HEA 1286 and other new laws signed by the governor, visit iga.in.gov.
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State Rep. Ryan Lauer (R-Columbus) represents House District 59,
which includes a portion of Bartholomew County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
PHOTO CAPTION: State Rep. Ryan Lauer (R-Columbus) (second to right) joins Governor Mike Braun (middle), State Rep. Alex Zimmerman (far left), State Sen. Cyndi Carrasco (second to left), and other supporters in the Governor's office to ceremonially sign a new law Lauer authored to strengthen protective orders and support victims.
