Gov. David Paterson has signed new legislation into law that protects the rights and security of victims of domestic violence.
Victims of domestic violence can now vote without worrying about their new address becoming public information
The new law will allow victims to request a court order that requires the board of elections to keep their registration records confidential. Victims addresses will be sealed and will provide protection from being contacted by their abusers.
“We can never do enough to protect victims of domestic violence,” New York State Sen. Brian X. Foley (D- Blue Point), a sponsor of the bill, said in a statement.
The law addresses a flaw in the election law that gives the boards of elections the right to disclose a voter’s address.
Previously, domestic violence victims were faced with the choice of voting and revealing their identity or not voting at all to protect themselves.
“Keeping the location of these individuals confidential allows them to exercise their fundamental right to vote while helping to ensure their safety,” said Foley.
Pamela C. Johnson, executive director of Victims Information Bureau of Suffolk (VIBS), an organization that helps survivors of domestic violence, rape and sexual assault, said that the law will help bring normalcy back to victims lives.
“No one should have to choose between their safety and the fundamental right to vote and this will allow victims to protect their anonymity and further reduce stalking by the abuser,” Johnson said.
Jo Anne Sanders, executive director of the Suffolk County Coalition Against Domestic Violence also supports the law. “Many victims fleeing abusive relationships make every effort to maintain a confidential location for the safety of themselves and their children,” she said.
Foley added: “By overhauling a broken and antiquated law that punishes victims, we are taking another important step forward in helping victims rebuild their lives.”
By Amanda Marzullo
