REDDING, Calif. — California has ushered in a series of new legislations aimed at enhancing the safety and support for survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking. Signed by Governor Gavin Newsom, the nine new laws seek to create a robust framework across the state to address the challenges faced by survivors.
Among the significant changes are laws including AB 2020, SB 963, and SB 989, which are designed to set standards for law enforcement and emergency room responses to victims. Kimberly Johnson, CEO of One Safe Place, a victim services organization in Redding, commended the state’s effort. She emphasized that many of these practices are already being implemented voluntarily by local agencies and hospitals, but the new laws will ensure these are standardized and sustained throughout California.
One standout law, AB 2432, introduces the California Victim Crime Fund, targeting a more consistent stream of resources for victim services. This fund will be sustained by fines collected from corporate white-collar crimes. Johnson pointed out that maintaining financial resources has been a perennial challenge in victim services, citing fluctuating funds in past programs. She believes that this new dedicated fund will help stabilize and perhaps even expand services.
Over the past decade, Johnson remarked there has been a marked improvement in addressing the once-taboo subject of domestic violence and human trafficking across California. However, she notes that there is still a long way to go, especially in smaller, rural counties which often feel overlooked by statewide legislation.
The legislation does take a broader geographic approach, ensuring inclusivity. Laws such as SB 1414, which increases penalties for adults soliciting minors, and AB 1966, which mandates human trafficking resource availability at major events, are examples of efforts to address both urban and rural needs comprehensively.
Further enhancing the legislative framework, SB 989 will improve law enforcement training for investigating deaths potentially linked to domestic violence. SB 963 mandates emergency room protocols to safely and confidentially handle victims who identify themselves as being in danger due to domestic violence or human trafficking.
Additional measures include AB 2024 and AB 2308, simplifying the process for obtaining restraining orders and extending the duration of domestic violence protective orders up to 15 years, respectively. Each law adds layers of safety and assurance for victims, making it easier to seek and secure protection.
These legislative updates are set to come into effect in 2025 and represent a significant step forward in California’s commitment to addressing and preventing domestic violence and human trafficking. As these laws unfold, the hope is that they will bring about meaningful change in the lives of those affected by these grievous issues.
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