Rep. Bolinsky Cosponsors, Applauds Passage of Bill Aiding Victims of Domestic Violence

HARTFORD – To better care for domestic violence victims and improve outcomes, State Rep. Mitch Bolinsky (R-Newtown) cosponsored and applauded the unanimous passage of HB 6520¸ An Act Concerning the Provision of Temporary State Services to Victims of Domestic Violence.

This legislation will provide victims a much-needed “safe harbor”, by empowering victims of domestic violence to remove themselves from an abusive situation as their first and best option, without the fear of financial devastation, resulting from the difficult decision to come forward and leave an abusive spouse/partner.

The bill removes the accused spouse/partner’s income from consideration to help lower the victim’s “household” income, making it easier to qualify for temporary financial assistance, like Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Care-4-Kids (C4K) childcare subsidy program.

“This law will protect folks who otherwise, might feel ‘trapped’ in an abusive, dangerous relationship.  I believe it will save lives, in addition to helping victims who need a fresh start” said Rep. Bolinsky. “Current law does not take into consideration the desperate and dangerous situation facing families experiencing domestic violence. In family units where the abuser is the sole or primary income earner or earns income above the qualifying thresholds, victims find it difficult to financially detach themselves from their abusers out of fear of not having the financial resources needed to meet their basic living needs.”

The bill awaits passage in the Senate. The 2021 legislative session adjourns at midnight next Wednesday, June 9, 2021.