Rep. Howard Working to Help Domestic Violence Victims

HARTFORD – State Representative Greg Howard (R-43), who testified in support of a proposal to better assist domestic violence victims by excluding the abuser’s income from the eligibility requirements necessary to receive them, received the approval by a key legislative committee this week.

The proposal, HB-6520, An Act Concerning the Provision of Temporary State Services to Victims of Domestic Violence, provides an immediate 90 days of temporary relief benefits to victims of domestic violence, to the extent permissible under federal law. If necessary, income requirements will be waived during that time period in order to ensure all Connecticut residents would be eligible to receive critical resources in a time of crisis. Benefits, such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Temporary Family Assistance (TFA), will also be expedited to victims and their families.

“We need to make sure domestic violence victims have the necessary options as they navigate their relationships and try to keep themselves and their children safe. Victims of domestic violence are living in an extremely vulnerable situation. No victim should be penalized financially because of their economic condition and want to leave the situation,” said Rep. Howard.

The bill received the endorsement from the Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence (CCA | DV), whose testimony stated, “this bill provides critical economic justice for victims of domestic violence” and urged its support.

With the favorable action of the Human Services committee, the bill now heads to the House of Representatives for a full debate and a vote.

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