On Valentine's Day, Washington state lawmakers highlighted the rise in gender-based violence and called for increased funding for victim services. Facing a budget deficit, lawmakers warned that crucial programs could be cut, leaving survivors without essential support. They championed multiple bills aimed at bolstering protections and services, including measures to backfill declining federal funding and enhance legal protections for survivors.
On Valentine’s Day, several democratic Washington state lawmakers gathered to shed light on the ongoing crisis of gender-based violence and pushed for crucial funding to support survivors.
“A woman is more likely to be harmed by someone she knows and loves than by a stranger,” Dhingra said. “Domestic violence accounts for 16% of all murders in our state, over 27% of rapes, and more than half of simple assaults.”Colleen McIngels, Director of Victim Services at the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, highlighted the dire funding shortfalls threatening critical services.
Senate Bill 5362 and House Bill 1487 – Sponsored by Sen. Dhingra and Rep. Lauren Davis , these bills aim to backfill the declining federal VOCA funding and provide a stable revenue source for victim services. SB 5362 is awaiting a hearing in the Senate Ways and Means Committee. HB 1487 appears to be dead because it has yet to get a committee hearing
Senate Bill 5202 – Championed by Sen. Jesse Salomon , this measure enhances protections for survivors by fixing gaps in Washington’s protection order system, including firearm possession loopholes. The bill passed the Senate on a 36-13 vote with six republicans voting and all democrats voting in favor of the bill. It now goes to the House.Rep.
With the legislative session underway, lawmakers are urging swift action to pass these bills and secure the $50 million necessary to sustain victim support services across the state.
Gender-Based Violence Funding Crisis Victim Services Legislative Action Washington State
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