Rep. Wexton Introduces Legislation to Utilize Agency Collaboration to Combat Domestic Violence During COVID-19

Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton (D-VA) has introduced legislation to require the Department of Justice (DOJ) to work with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to develop guidance and training for law enforcement to identify and combat domestic violence during the coronavirus pandemic. Global reports indicate that stay at home orders have increased incidence of domestic violence.

Kristi VanAudenhove, Executive Director of the Virginia Sexual & Domestic Violence Action Alliance, noted in a press release from Rep. Wexton’s office that evidence from violence crisis hotlines and programs show a significant spike in requests for emergency services and housing during the COVID-19 pandemic. In March, Virginia reported a 76 percent increase in calls to domestic violence emergency hotlines and 1,000 additional individuals sought overnight shelter from domestic violence.

“As we see a surge in domestic violence here in Virginia and across the country, protecting survivors starts with ensuring our law enforcement officers have the resources they need to respond safely and effectively during this pandemic.” said Congresswoman Wexton. “When I was a prosecutor, I worked closely with law enforcement to address domestic violence. These officers are saving lives every day, but they’re working under unprecedented circumstances. Now more than ever, it’s critical that we provide law enforcement with the support they need to protect themselves and survivors.”

Under the legislation, the Attorney General would be directed to work with HHS and relevant domestic violence and law enforcement stakeholders to issue guidance that highlights best practices and resources that federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies can adopt to address domestic violence effectively while ensuring the safety of law enforcement officers, their families, survivors of domestic violence and their children while limiting the spread of COVID-19.

According to the release, the guidance would need to include best practices on limiting exposure to COVID-19, assessing and addressing domestic violence threats during the pandemic, enforcing domestic violence protective orders and child custody orders, and more. An educational resource guide would also be created focused on risk factors unique to COVID-19 that increases the chances of escalation and lethality in domestic violence, training and investigation tools for officers, vicarious trauma resources, and resources for survivors during COVID-19.

In statement endorsing the legislation, Larry Cosme, National President of the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association, explained, “This is a time when our homes must be a safe haven, not a danger zone. While it is necessary for people to stay at home to limit the spread of the coronavirus, an unfortunate side effect of this situation is that individuals living in unsafe conditions may feel trapped with their abusers… While our doctors, scientists, and first responders do their important work to defend our nation against this disease, the American people must feel secure staying in their homes. This legislation sets law enforcement up with the guidance they need to protect those in need.”