According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 71% of pet owners entering domestic violence shelters report that their abuser had threatened, injured, or killed family pets. Yet, many domestic violence shelters are unable to take in pets. As gut-wrenching as it is to make the decision, some domestic violence survivors have no choice but to leave their pets behind.

Not having a safe place for your pet to go is a major barrier to victims leaving a potentially life-threatening situation. To remove this barrier to safety, I will be introducing legislation to make expenses related to the relocation of pets an “out-of-pocket loss” compensable under the Crime Victim Compensation Program. This program currently covers relocation expenses necessary to protect the health and safety of the victim and other individuals residing in their household. As family members, pets should be covered, too.

Close to 40% of domestic violence victims are unable to escape their abusers because they are concerned about how their pets will be treated when they leave. Please join me in supporting the safety of these victims and their families, including their pets, by signing on to this proposal.