Murdock's Minutes

SB 291 would allow protective orders for abused minors

 

February 19, 2023

Sen. Casey Murdock, R-Felt, welcomed the Ringwood FCCLA to the Capitol this past week.

We've concluded the second week of the legislative session, with some 300 bills being approved so far in committee. Legislation that has already been approved in committee have begun receiving floor votes as well, with the full Senate approving 16 measures in the first two weeks.

Last week I told you about one of the measures I filed this session that deals with children who are victims of domestic abuse. Under current law, adults who are being stalked or harassed by their abuser can obtain a Victims Protective Order (VPO). Unfortunately, there is no mechanism to allow children to obtain these orders. My legislation, SB 291, would allow a parent or guardian to seek a VPO on behalf of a child abuse victim. It's another step closer to becoming law after being approved by the full Senate this past week. The measure now moves to the House of Representatives for further consideration.

There's another bill making its way through the legislative process that I support which deals with a different aspect of domestic abuse. There was a time when many people looked on domestic violence as a private family matter. I think as a society, we have a better understanding about the lasting damage this crime does to children and adults alike, and we've worked hard to make sure our laws reflect our views that this is a crime, and those who abuse their children or spouse should be held fully accountable.

But I was shocked to learn that under current state law, a first conviction for domestic violence against a pregnant woman is only a misdemeanor punishable by up to a year in county jail. Several federal health and safety organizations point to statistics showing homicide is the number one cause of death of pregnant women in this country – more than health complications like gestational diabetes or preeclampsia.

Senate Bill 1046 will make the crime of domestic abuse against someone the individual knew was pregnant at the time of the attack to be a felony offense, punishable by up to five years in prison.

In addition to voting on bills in committee and on the floor this past week, I also was very proud to welcome a couple of great groups from back home to the state Capitol. Tuesday was Higher Education Day, and I was so happy to visit with a group from Panhandle State University. I'm sure we can expect great things in the years to come from these outstanding young people.

I was also very happy to welcome the Ringwood FCCLA to the Capitol. FCCLA stands for Family, Career and Community Leaders of America, a national nonprofit student organization to help youth develop leadership and workplace skills to help them succeed in college and in their careers. I'm certain these students are also on a pathway to success, and I thank everyone who came by to see us this week.

It is my honor to serve you in the Oklahoma State Senate. You can reach me by calling 405-521-5626 or emailing [email protected].

 

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