Jessica Vaughn-Martin

As a state, we should be eliminating barriers to protection, not increasing them: • Petitions filed through the Judicial Branch already include a section requiring victims to swear that the information they provided is true and accurate. Further, it cautions them that they could face penalties if any of the information submitted is found to be false. HB1552 is unnecessary. • Asking victims to attest to their truthfulness not only adds to the shame and self-blame experienced by many victims, it’s also likely to discourage victims from seeking essential relief. Victims should not be afraid of potential legal consequences when they are already in fear for their lives. HB1552 sends a dangerous message that victims shouldn't be believed at a time when they may already fear retaliation from their abuser for coming forward. These further isolates victims and survivors and increases the likelihood of more fatal consequences.