Strengthening Protections for Domestic Violence and Stalking Survivors Act of 2025

This bill significantly expands federal firearm prohibitions by redefining key terms in title 18, United States Code, to enhance protections for survivors of domestic violence and stalking. It broadens the definition of an "intimate partner" to include individuals who are or were in a dating relationship, as well as others similarly situated to a spouse under state or tribal domestic violence laws. This change ensures that more relationships are covered under existing federal protections. The legislation also expands the scope of a "misdemeanor crime of domestic violence" to include offenses committed against children of a parent or guardian who has a current or recent former dating relationship with the perpetrator. A major new provision establishes a federal firearm prohibitor for individuals convicted of a "misdemeanor crime of stalking," defining it as a misdemeanor involving harassment, intimidation, or surveillance causing fear or emotional distress to the victim or their close associates. For these convictions to trigger a firearm prohibition, specific due process requirements must be met, such as legal representation or a knowing waiver, and a jury trial or waiver. These amendments aim to enhance protections for survivors by closing perceived gaps in federal law regarding firearm access for offenders.