This section defines terms used in the subchapter, including authorized user, peace officer, protective order, protective order registry, and race or ethnicity.
Sec. 72.151. DEFINITIONS. In this subchapter: (1) "Authorized user" means a person to whom the office has given permission and the means to submit records to or modify or remove records in the registry. The term does not include members of the public who may only access through the registry's Internet website certain information regarding protective orders entered into the registry. (2) "Peace officer" has the meaning assigned by Article 2A.001, Code of Criminal Procedure. (3) "Protective order" means: (A) an order issued by a court in this state under Chapter 83 or 85, Family Code, to prevent family violence, as defined by Section 71.004, Family Code; (B) an order issued by a court in this state under Subchapter A, Chapter 7B, Code of Criminal Procedure, to prevent sexual assault or abuse, stalking, trafficking, or other harm to the applicant; or (C) a magistrate's order for emergency protection issued under Article 17.292, Code of Criminal Procedure, with respect to a person who is arrested for an offense involving family violence. (4) "Protective order registry" or "registry" means the protective order registry established under Section 72.153. (5) "Race or ethnicity" means a particular descent, including Caucasian, African, Hispanic, Asian, or Native American descent. Added by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 16 (S.B. 325), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2019. Amended by: Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 934 (H.B. 3774), Sec. 13.01, eff. September 1, 2021. Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 765 (H.B. 4504), Sec. 2.074, eff. January 1, 2025.