Thousands of Iowans are victims of domestic violence and sexual assault each year. To help, the Legislature is moving to modernize state services for victims and better meet the needs of survivors.
Funding provided in the Justice System Budget will help with this process. Although a conference committee is working out the final details of Senate File 447, I am hopeful they will maintain nearly $9 million—a big increase over last year—for Victim Assistance Grants to programs that help victims of domestic violence and sexual assault.
Iowa’s Attorney General, the Iowa Coalition Against Domestic Violence, the Iowa Coalition Against Sexual Assault and others are seeking to focus comprehensive services to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. The proposed approach includes:
• Mobile assistance, which allows victims to choose where to meet with advocates.
• Helping victims quickly secure permanent, safe housing.
• Financial or legal counseling for those seeking protective orders, divorce, child custody and support.
• Limited cash assistance to help pay rent and security or utility deposits.
Doing a better job of helping the survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault will make Iowa a safer, healthier place to live.
If you or someone you know needs help, call the Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-942-0333, or the Iowa Sexual Abuse Hotline at 1-800-284-7821.