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Senate Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
Senate of Pennsylvania
Session of 2021 - 2022
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | January 10, 2022 02:20 PM |
|---|---|
| From: | Senator Wayne Langerholc, Jr. and Sen. Nikil Saval |
| To: | All Senate members |
| Subject: | Early Lease Termination for Victims of Domestic Violence |
| In the near future, we intend to introduce legislation to allow victims of domestic violence to terminate their lease and free themselves from their abuser. Domestic violence is a leading cause of homelessness for women nationally where roughly one in four women in America will experience domestic violence in their lifetime. The Violence Against Women Act provides housing protections for domestic violence survivors in federally assisted housing, but its protections are not applicable in the private rental market. A major obstacle for victims of domestic violence is their current lease agreement and their inability to afford to vacate their dwelling to escape abuse. Lease agreements are unable to be terminated leaving victims stuck in a toxic and dangerous environment. This legislation will enable victims in the private rental market to terminate their lease, escape their abuser, and get a fresh start free from domestic violence. Our legislation protects victims while ensuring landlords are protected as well. Please join us in co-sponsoring this vital legislation to protect victims of domestic violence. |