Bill providing assistance for domestic violence victims heads to governor

OKLAHOMA CITY – A measure to provide some financial assistance to victims of domestic violence passed the Senate Tuesday and will next be considered by the governor. Sen. Adam Pugh, R-Edmond, is the Senate author of House Bill 2242 to require public utilities and municipally-owned utility providers to waive the initial credit and deposit requirements for such victims.

“Often times, victims of domestic violence escape their abusers with little to no money and no credit. They need to secure safe housing quickly, but mandatory credit checks and deposits can be a deterrent to leaving and seeking safety,” Pugh said. “Victims should not have to choose between their safety or that of their children in these emergency situations. This will help them get settled in a new residence, so they can focus on healing and moving forward.”

A recent study by World Population Review ranked Oklahoma first nationally for domestic violence with over 49% of women and nearly 41% of men having experienced domestic abuse in the past or currently. The study also ranked the state as third in the nation for the number of women killed by men. According to reports from the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, around 25,000 incidents of domestic violence are reported annually in the state.

Under HB 2242, victims seeking the waiver must have a certification letter from a law enforcement officer or a domestic violence shelter or program to validate their situation, which will expire after 90 days. An existing protective order can also be used.

Rep. Mike Dobrinski, R-Okeene, is the bill’s House author.

“We want to do all we can to make sure victims of domestic violence are able to get somewhere safe away from their abuser. Easing the burden of these up-front fees will help,” Dobrinski said. “I appreciate Senator Pugh running this in the Senate and am grateful for its passage."

If signed by the governor, the measure would go into effect immediately.

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For more information, contact:  
Sen. Pugh: (405) 521-5622 or Adam.Pugh@oksenate.gov