In honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Assemblyman Karl Brabenec (R,TCN-Deerpark) urged his legislative colleagues to act on measures addressing this serious issue in New York state. The lawmaker expressed the pressing need to provide increased funding and to support programs and services for survivors, as well as more severe penalties for perpetrators of these horrible crimes.

Brabenec previously hosted a roundtable discussion in Orange County as part of the Assembly Minority’s Task Force on Preventing Domestic Violence last fall. The well-attended event brought together several local stakeholders, including interest groups, law enforcement agencies, first responders and survivors of domestic abuse to discuss what could be done locally to address this public health crisis. Brabenec has also been steadfast in his support for measures to impose harsher penalties on abusers, while working to ensure those who have been affected by these crimes receive the care and assistance they need to support their recovery.

“Domestic violence is a public health crisis here in New York, and it’s high time that we took meaningful action at the state level to ensure the survivors of abuse are given the help they need while those who perpetrate these heinous acts are held responsible,” said Brabenec. “This October, let’s reaffirm our commitment to addressing this issue, and work together to build momentum in our year-round efforts to eliminate domestic violence from our community once and for all.”

If you or someone you know has been affected by domestic violence, please visit the NYS Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence website for information on the resources available to you. To learn more about this issue, or to discuss any additional state matters, please contact Brabenec’s district office at 845-544-7551.