A home is supposed to be a safe place, filled with trust, love and respect. But domestic violence can turn it into a nightmare. That’s the reality that 10 million people face across the country every year.1 Here in Central New York, there were 3,537 reported cases of domestic violence in Onondaga County in 2016.2

Unfortunately, finding a way out can be difficult. An abuser might control access to finances, communications and transportation, and a victim is often in the most danger after they leave.3 I helped pass several pieces of legislation in the state Assembly to help victims break free, ensure they have a pathway to justice and provide resources to help them move forward.

Two measures allow victims to break a telephone, cable or broadband contract, as well as a shared or family wireless contract, without incurring cancellation fees (A.1056, A.946-A). Whether it’s getting a new number or breaking ties, victims shouldn’t be stuck in contracts with their abuser.

To help victims achieve financial independence, I also helped pass legislation that prohibits discrimination against survivors in the workplace and requires that employers provide reasonable accommodations for court appearances, counseling or medical treatment related to an employee’s abuse (A.1481-A). Victims should not be punished for the crimes committed against them.

The legislation also protects victims when they seek medical attention by requiring hospitals to establish procedures regarding domestic violence and designate a staff member to coordinate services (A.4014-A). Further, it allows non-physically injured victims of certain charges to be reimbursed for shelter costs and crime scene cleanup (A.10275).

One of the most important ways we can support survivors is by making it easier for them to get justice. To this end, the legislation ensures they understand their legal rights and have access to services by simplifying the language in court documents (A.5921), increases the statute of limitations for injuries as a result of domestic violence in civil court to two years (A.1516) and allows victims to receive damages for losses from all defendants found liable in civil court (A.1390). It also gives judges expanded discretion in sentencing defendants who are victims of domestic violence where the abuse was a significant factor in the offense (A.3110).

Help and support are always available. Vera House here in Central New York is a domestic and sexual violence service agency that provides shelter, advocacy and counseling services. Vera House is a strong proponent of domestic violence survivors, and it was my honor to participate in the organization’s annual white ribbon campaign in March.

For help or assistance, call Vera House at 315-468-3260 or visit its website at verahouse.org. But remember, always call 911 in an emergency.

As always, I’m here to help. If you have any questions or concerns, contact me at StirpeA@nyassembly.gov or by calling 315-452-1115.

_________________________________

1. ncadv.org/statistics

2. criminaljustice.ny.gov/crimnet/ojsa/domesticviolence/onondaga.pdf

3. stoprelationshipabuse.org/educated/barriers-to-leaving-an-abusive-relationship