Social Workers' Perspectives on Extreme Risk Protection Orders.

This article examines social workers' perspectives on extreme risk protection orders (ERPOs), civil orders that temporarily restrict firearm access for individuals at substantial risk of harming themselves (HTS) or others (HTO). A survey of 1,381 licensed social workers in Washington state found high willingness to counsel clients' family members (96%), contact law enforcement (84–87%), and independently file ERPOs (78–79%, if legally permitted). Key barriers to engagement included lack of knowledge about ERPO processes and concerns about involving law enforcement or the legal system, while facilitators such as targeted training and access to legal consultation increased willingness. The study highlights the need for enhanced education and support infrastructure to enable social workers' effective participation in ERPO implementation and calls for further research on addressing hesitancy related to law enforcement involvement and potential policy modifications allowing social workers to file ERPOs independently.