Survivors of domestic and sexual violence can break their lease early in some states • New Jersey Monitor

New Hampshire State Representative Introduces Bill to Protect Victims of Domestic Violence

State Representative Ellen Read from New Hampshire recalls her personal experience as a victim of domestic violence in her youth. She endured years of abuse, including being held captive and physically assaulted. Even after leaving the relationship, her abuser continued to stalk her for 16 years until his suicide in 2016. Now, Read has authored a bill that would allow victims of domestic and sexual violence, including stalking, to break their rental lease agreements early if they provide a police report or are in the process of obtaining necessary documents such as a protective order. The bill aims to provide a path forward for victims and prevent them from being forced to stay with their abusers or in the homes where they were abused. The bill has been sent to Republican Governor Chris Sununu after passing both chambers.

Impact of the Pandemic and Housing Crisis

The COVID-19 pandemic and the worsening housing crisis have prompted state lawmakers to address the challenges faced by victims of assault who are struggling to escape their abusers. According to a report released by the National Commission on COVID-19 and Criminal Justice, domestic violence incidents in the United States increased by 8.1% following the imposition of pandemic lockdown orders in 2020. In response, more than a dozen states have passed measures in recent years to strengthen rental protections for survivors. These laws allow victims to break their leases by providing evidence of stalking, sexual assault, or an abusive domestic relationship. Many cities and states are also exploring other ways to assist survivors, such as developing transitional housing or offering housing vouchers.

The Post-Separation Journey

Leaving an abusive relationship is a complex process, as highlighted by Stephanie Woodbine’s experience in New York City. Woodbine faced emotional and economic abuse, which made it difficult for her to find stable housing after leaving her abuser. She did not qualify for domestic violence shelters and ended up living in hotels, experiencing “hidden homelessness.” Woodbine eventually received an emergency housing voucher and secured permanent housing. The post-separation period can be challenging for survivors, and providing permanent housing is crucial to their stability and recovery.

Housing as a Key Service for Survivors

Intimate partner violence is a significant cause of homelessness, and survivors often have a critical need for safe and stable housing. Currently, only 10% of shelters and transitional housing are targeted specifically for domestic violence victims and their families. Cities and states are increasingly recognizing the importance of housing in supporting survivors and are working to provide more housing options. Nonprofits and government programs are playing a crucial role in navigating survivors through the process of obtaining housing assistance. For example, New York City has launched a pilot program funded by a grant to help 100 families affected by domestic violence find homes.

Breaking the Lease

If Representative Read’s bill is signed into law, New Hampshire will join 40 other states that have early rental lease termination protections for victims of domestic or sexual abuse. Other states, such as Oklahoma and Utah, have recently passed similar laws. Landlord groups initially raised concerns about the financial burden of early lease terminations, but the legislation has been modified to address these concerns. Some states allow landlords to charge fees or forward rent payments in cases of intimate partner violence, but advocates argue that such requirements can be barriers for survivors who may struggle to obtain necessary documentation.

Source: Stateline

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

• SDG 5: Gender Equality
• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
• SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

• SDG 5.2: Eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls in the public and private spheres
• SDG 11.1: Ensure access for all to adequate, safe, and affordable housing and basic services
• SDG 16.1: Significantly reduce all forms of violence and related death rates everywhere

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

Yes, there are indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets. These include:

• Number of states with early rental lease termination protections for victims of domestic or sexual abuse (indicator for SDG 5.2)
• Number of cities and states providing new housing options for survivors of domestic violence (indicator for SDG 11.1)
• Percentage change in domestic violence incidents following the imposition of pandemic lockdown orders (indicator for SDG 16.1)

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

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Fuente: newjerseymonitor.com

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