Support - SB 554 (Cortese), Survivor’s Protection Act

I would like to express strong support for Senate Bill 554, the Survivor’s Protection Act. This crucial legislation addresses the pressing issue of nonresident survivors of domestic violence and harassment being denied the ability to petition for a restraining order in the state of California. I am deeply committed to advocating for the rights and well-being of survivors of sexual and domestic violence. Unfortunately, California statutes do not provide equity for survivors of domestic violence. This leaves nonresident survivors of all genders in danger. In fact, ours is one of few states without a statute governing the jurisdiction of restraining order petitions for survivors of sexual/domestic violence and harassment. Our requirements for accessing a restraining order also happen to be more restrictive – in some cases leaving victims in continued danger. SB 554 is modeled after successful legislation in other states, including 14 states allowing petitions for resident survivors, and 25 states allowing petitions by nonresident survivors. This measure is a critical step towards correcting the gaps in our legal system that leave nonresident survivors in danger. I ask for your support for domestic violence survivors, and your “Aye” vote on SB 554.