Charleston, WV - Senate President Jeff Kessler (D - Marshall) announced today that after championing domestic violence issues for many years, a bill beefing up protective orders has been signed into law.
Senate Bill 191 expands the availability of protective orders to any victim of sexual violence, stalking or harassment. The new law offers protection to child sex assault victims whose abuser may be a neighbor or teacher. It also offers protection to adults who work with their abuser or stalker. President Kessler says this is incredibly important because it closes a dangerous loophole in the law.
“I am proud that the Legislature worked swiftly and efficiently to appropriately strengthen this law,” says Kessler. “I, along with Governor Tomblin, remain committed to making sure all West Virginians are protected in the place they should feel the safest – their home.”
Prior to the Governor signing SB 191, the law only provided such protections to victims who live with their abuser or who are related to their abuser or attacker. Senate President Kessler vows to continue fighting for victims of domestic violence and ensure that every person, every second of the day, is safe in their homes and community.
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