Connecticut House Bill HB05959

Connecticut 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/22/15
• Refer: 1/22/15

Caption

An Act Providing Sufficient State Funding To Maintain Twenty-four-hour Staffing At Domestic Violence Shelters.

Impact

The implementation of HB 05959 would significantly impact the operational standards of domestic violence shelters throughout the state. This legislative measure would amend existing statutes to guarantee that all funded shelters operate with staff available around the clock. The move aims to improve the overall response capacity of shelters and ensure that victims have access to the resources and support they need when they need it, potentially leading to better outcomes for survivors of domestic violence.

Summary

House Bill 05959 aims to address the critical issue of domestic violence by ensuring that shelters have sufficient state funding to maintain twenty-four-hour staffing. The bill emphasizes the need for continuous support and immediate assistance for victims, recognizing that the availability of on-site staff at all hours is crucial for the safety and well-being of individuals seeking refuge from abusive situations. By mandating state funding, the bill seeks to eliminate gaps in support services during times when victims may need help the most, particularly during the night or early morning hours.

Contention

Opponents of the bill may voice concerns regarding the financial implications of such mandates on state budgets, as providing consistent funding for 24-hour staffing may divert resources from other critical areas. Supporters argue that the emotional and physical safety of domestic violence victims should take precedence, emphasizing that the state has an obligation to provide comprehensive support services. They claim that well-supported shelters will ultimately reduce the long-term costs associated with domestic violence, such as law enforcement responses and healthcare expenses resulting from violence.

Notable_points

Representatives from various advocacy groups support HB 05959, stating that this funding is essential for maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of services offered by shelters. The discussions surrounding the bill have highlighted the ongoing challenges that domestic violence shelters face in providing consistent services without sufficient funding, and how such legislative measures can create a more supportive environment for victims and their families.