Issue Position: Domestic Violence Prevention & Protection

Issue Position

Over the last several months, I was part of the New York State Assembly Minority Task Force on Domestic Violence which brought together victims, advocates, service providers and law enforcement officials to identify gaps in the system and develop solutions aimed at protecting those suffering from domestic violence and preventing it from continuing.

Enabling victims to communicate safely, find necessary shelter and protect themselves and their loved ones is critical. Justice must be served to those who choose to abuse others. To protect victims of abuse and stand up for what is right, our report offered a number of legislative solutions, including:

Creating a new statute designating an enhanced Domestic Violence Crime;
Creating a new "Domestic Violence in the Presence of a Child" crime;
Creating a standardized warning process for serving an order of protection;
Permitting courts to award temporary spousal support when issuing a temporary order of protection;
Increasing access to temporary housing for victims of domestic violence;
Expanding the current Family Justice Center model and creating a fully-funded, state-based program that will allow Domestic Violence Crisis Centers to ensure safe support services are more accessible to victims;
Creating a statewide education campaign to promote healthy relationships and inform students of the warning signs of domestic violence; and
Prioritizing funding for programs aimed at providing shelter, benefits and training for victims and advocates.

Source