Support HB248/SB210 - Protective Orders - Relief Eligibility - Rape and Sexual Offenses
HB248/SB210is one of the bills on our
2020 Agenda and was heard this week in the House Judiciary and Senate Judicial Proceedings committees. Please take action as described. We have included the emails for the committee members at the bottom for your convenience.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
HB248/SB210 Protective Orders - Relief Eligibility - Rape and Sexual Offenses would alter the definition of "person eligible for relief" in a domestic violence protective order to include any individual who alleges s/he is a victim of a rape or sexual offense within one year of filing the petition and by removing them from the peace order to clarify that these victims are eligible to receive all of the protections of a protective order rather than a peace order.
For many years, domestic violence and sexual assault advocates have worked to have the protective order (PO) cover victims who were in dating relationships and victims of sexual assault. One of our first attempts to add this resulted in the creation of the peace order. While the PO covered these acts, many victims were not eligible for a PO because of their relationship to the abuser. In 2015, the law changed to include victims on sexual relationships. Since then there have been a number of judges who believe date rape victims do not qualify for a PO because the parties were not in a "relationship." By clarifying that this group of victims is eligible for a PO, it provides them with the special protections of a protective order that are not included in peace orders, e.g. longer order, removal of firearms, more robust response by law enforcement.
We strongly urge you to contact members of the House Judiciary and Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee to urge their support for HB248/SB210.
Email addresses for the Judicary Committee members (cut and paste into your email application):
The Maryland Legislative Agenda for Women (MLAW) is a statewide coalition of women's groups and individuals formed to provide a non-partisan, independent, voice for Maryland women and families. The group advocates for progressive legislation and policy that promotes and protects the well being of Maryland women and their families and provides them opportunities to develop their full potential.
Maryland Legislative Agenda for Women
c/o 305 W. Chesapeake Avenue #201
Towson, Maryland 21204
