Strengthening Protections for Domestic Violence and Stalking Survivors Act of 2025

This bill aims to expand federal definitions to offer greater protections for victims of domestic violence and stalking. It amends Title 18 of the U.S. Code to broaden the definition of an "intimate partner" to include individuals who are or were in a dating relationship, or are similarly situated to a spouse. The bill also clarifies that a "dating relationship" signifies a continuing serious relationship of a romantic or intimate nature, encompassing both current and past connections. Furthermore, the legislation expands the definition of a "misdemeanor crime of domestic violence" to cover offenses against the child of a current or recent former dating partner. Crucially, it establishes a new federal prohibitor for firearm possession by individuals convicted of a "misdemeanor crime of stalking." This new definition of stalking includes a course of harassment, intimidation, or surveillance that causes fear of harm or emotional distress to the victim, their family, cohabitants, intimate partners, or even their pets.