Issues: Domestic Violence

ALBANY, 06/21/12 – State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I-Oneonta) today commented on the close of the 2012 legislative session:

“Albany is results driven once again and for that reason there were plenty of notable accomplishments during the 2012 legislative session.  We focused on solutions and accountability.

 “For a second consecutive year we passed an on-time state budget that kept spending in check, rejected new taxes and fees, funds the reconstruction of our upstate roads and bridges and funnels additional education aid to our neediest rural schools. 

            A bill  passed by the New York State Senate and the New York State Assembly would extend the length of stay for families seeking refuge in a domestic violence shelter to 180 days, an increase of 45 days over the current law.

CALLS FOR EVEN MORE REFORM

The New York State Senate today passed legislation that will protect victims of domestic violence and establish stronger criminal penalties to punish individuals who commit acts of domestic violence. The bill (S7638), sponsored by Senator Steve Saland (R-I-C, Poughkeepsie), Chairman of the Senate Codes Committee, represents a three-way agreement among the Senate, Governor Cuomo and the Assembly.  It includes several important provisions included in bills that have already passed the Senate this year, such as bail reforms and increased penalties for domestic violence crimes.

"This agreement builds on our commitment to combat domestic violence and protect innocent victims, which has always been a focus of our Senate Republican conference. Rather than politicize this issue as others have done, we’ve worked cooperatively with the Governor and Assembly to once again show that government can function and deliver on a critically-important issue. I applaud the Governor for his leadership and commend Senator Saland and Senator Golden for helping us achieve a strong bill that will save lives."

Conference Calls on Republican Majority to Bring Domestic Violence

Legislative Package to a Vote Immediately