HARTFORD, Conn. (WTNH) – There’s a renewed push to put protections in place for victims of domestic violence. Last week, a federal appeals court ruled the government can’t stop people who have domestic violence restraining orders against them from owning guns.

On Monday, Connecticut lawmakers vowed they will fight if laws in the state are challenged. While this doesn’t impact Connecticut now, it could down the line.

One Connecticut family says stronger laws like this could have saved their daughter’s life.

With her two young twins, Lori Jackson sought refuge at her family’s home, trying to leave an abusive partner.

“I saw early on the abuse, verbally and then turned physically,” said Merry Jackson, Lori’s mother.

Lori got a temporary restraining order against her husband, but weeks later, he broke into their house and shot Lori and her mother.

“She was behind me, and I heard her take her last breaths,” Merry said. “I know she died instantly.”

Following her death in 2014, Lori’s family fought to pass Lori Jackson’s law, which requires people who are subject to a restraining or protective order to turn in their firearms within 24 hours. Last week, the federal appeals court ruled the government can’t stop people with domestic violence restraining orders against them from owning guns, which could possibly undermine laws in Connecticut.

“We worked really, really hard to pass the law in 2016 here in Connecticut, so the fact that it can maybe be gone in an instant is terrifying,” said Kacey Mason, Lori’s sister.

Connecticut Attorney General William Tong and a bipartisan group of lawmakers pledged that won’t happen.

“Our laws are strong and constitutional and today, they will keep people safe,” Tong said.

“I want to be clear on this, the 5^th Circuit decision does not alter the law in the State of Connecticut,” said Senator Tony Hwang. “It is enforced, and it will continue to be enforced.”

Just a few weeks ago, Traci-Marie Jones was killed in an apparent murder-suicide in Bethel after obtaining a restraining order against her husband just days before.

“Every time I see it on the news, it breaks my heart,” Merry said. “It brings it all back because we understand what that family is going through.”

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