Safer Homes and Families Act
One of the significant provisions of HB 6034 is the modification of the 10-year marriage rule concerning insurance benefits for individuals who experience domestic violence. Under the existing law, a spouse must be married for ten years to qualify for survivor benefits. The new bill proposes reducing this requirement to five years if the individual can prove they were a victim of domestic violence during the marriage. This change is expected to provide more immediate financial support for victims who leave abusive relationships, potentially reducing their economic vulnerability.
House Bill 6034, titled the 'Safer Homes and Families Act', seeks to enhance protections for survivors of domestic violence and stalking. This legislation criminalizes the use of unauthorized geotracking devices to stalk individuals, thereby updating the existing legal framework around stalking offenses. The bill specifically amends Section 2261A of Title 18 of the United States Code to include penalties for using such devices without consent, aiming to address an emerging concern with technology being used for harassment and violation of privacy.
The bill also includes provisions aiming to provide additional housing protections for victims, allowing them to terminate leases early without incurring fees if they are fleeing domestic violence situations. While these provisions have received general support, some concerns have been raised regarding the implications for landlords and potential abuse of tenant protections. Advocates emphasize the need for comprehensive victim support services to be in place to complement these legal changes, ensuring that victims not only have legal recourse but also practical support in their recovery process.