Noting that one out of three domestic violence victims delays ending abusive relationships due to concerns for their pets and one out of four return to abusive partners due to fears over their pets, U.S. Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, R-Fla., teamed up with U.S. Rep. Katherine Clark, D-Mass., to introduce the Pet and Women Safety (PAWS) Act.
The bill would create a federal grant program to help domestic violence victims find shelter for their pets. The congresswomen noted on Wednesday that only 3 percent of domestic violence shelters across the nation are able to welcome pets. The bill also urges states to expand legal protections to pets of domestic violence victims.
Im proud to work with Rep. Clark on the PAWS Act in order to ensure that victims of domestic violence have all protections available to them, Ros-Lehitnen said on Wednesday. Too many victims feel compelled to stay in abusive relationships to protect their pets. This bill protects both victims and pets. We should continue to work for the day when victims of domestic violence will not be hindered in their decision to leave an abuser.
Sadly, domestic violence is something one in every four women will experience at some point in their lives, said Clark. This isolating experience is made even worse for those who fear for the safety of their pet. Most pet lovers, including me, consider their beloved dog or cat a part of their family. No one should have to make the choice between leaving an abusive situation and ensuring their pets safety. I am grateful for the partnerships weve formed across the aisle and between organizations working to end both domestic violence and animal abuse. Together, we crafted a bill that will help save lives.
The bill was introduced last week and was sent to the House Judicial and Agricultural committees. Groups ranging from the National Network to End Domestic Violence, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the Humane Society of the United States, the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, the Association of Prosecuting Attorneys, the National District Attorneys Association, the American Veterinary Medical Association and the National Sheriffs Association have endorsed the bill.
While there is no Senate counterpart yet, sources tell Sunshine State News one is in the works. Almost 50 congressional representatives have joined on as co-sponsors, including U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan, R-Fla., U.S. Rep. Ted Deutch, D-Fla., and U.S. Rep. Alan Grayson, D-Fla.
Reach Kevin Derby at kderby@sunshinestatenews.com or follow him on Twitter: @KevinDerbySSN
