Torres Passes Legislation Protecting Domestic Violence Victims

Statement

Congresswoman Norma J. Torres (CA-35) today passed the Supporting Victims of Domestic Violence Act , legislation designed to study and update laws and regulations that can trap victims in an abusive marriage, harming both them and their children.

Specifically, the Supporting Victims of Domestic Violence Act :

Requires the US Department of Justice to investigate whether domestic abuse victims are more likely to lose primary custody of their children to an abusive partner or to the State. The review must include recommendations on restructuring relevant state laws, regulations and practices.
Requires the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to study the direct and collateral economic costs and risks of divorce from an abusive partner poses to a victim of domestic violence, including payment of alimony, legal fees, spousal support and the division of property. The review must provide recommendations that address these costs and risks.

Torres' bill passed out of the US House of Representatives in the form of two amendments to the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act (HR 1620). Among other things, this reauthorization of the landmark 1994 domestic violence legislation:

Makes vital new investments in domestic violence prevention;
Improves services for victims of domestic violence, dating violence sexual assault and stalking;
Improves the criminal justice response to gender-based violence;
Addresses unique challenges to better protect Native American women;
Improves access to housing for survivors and victims;
Supports survivors who need assistance rebuilding financially, and much more.

Congresswoman Torres release d the following statement:

"The only thing someone caught in an abusive relationship should have to focus on is getting out to ensure safety for themselves and their children," Rep. Norma J. Torres said. "But right now, the complications of divorce or separation make it more difficult for victims to get away. We need to better understand how concerns about child custody, economic hardship, and unjust court-ordered outcomes can overshadow concerns for personal safety, and we need to update any law or regulation that forces victims to choose. I'm grateful that so many of my colleagues agreed and supported my bill today. It is fitting that it passed as part of VAWA's reauthorization - it will help expand and modernize VAWA's landmark impact protecting victims. "

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