The Kentucky legislative session concluded in April, and Governor Beshear signed three bills related to our mission into law.

The new legislation, taking effect July 1, strengthens protections for survivors of intimate partner abuse in Kentucky.

Legislation introduced by Representative Steven Rudy makes stalking a felony offense and expands the definition to include social media.

“Social media is part of our daily lives, and it’s critically important that our laws protecting victims reflect these changes,” says Darlene Thomas, our executive director.

A 10-year protective order for victims whose abuser is convicted of first- or second-degree felony assault also becomes law.

Introduced by Representative Stephanie Dietz, this legislation also improves how data is collected for Kentucky’s Annual Domestic Violence Data Report.

“Felony assault convictions typically include prison sentences because these are crimes of severe physical harm, often with a weapon. Survivors
deserve continued protection when the abuser is released.”

Legislation sponsored by Senator Julie Raque Adams, amended to include legislation introduced by Representative Jason Nemes, requires privately paid parental
coordinators and visitation super visors to complete training in the dynamics of domestic violence.

“We must ensure those providing services for survivors and their children can identify signs of coercive control and risks for escalated violence,” Darlene says.

Although several bills introduced this year did not make it out of committee review, the process began important conversations about the needs of survivors.