Linda Newell

DENVER— On August 5th, 2009, House Bill 1007, sponsored by Senator Linda Newell (D-Littleton), goes into effect. It will allow domestic violence experts to be a part of local oversight groups that manage multi-agency services for families across the state. The inclusion of domestic violence experts will address a major gap in Colorado law and help prevent abused children from falling through the cracks.

"It is our responsibility to ensure that every child is safe and in a nurturing environment," said Sen. Newell. "It is critical to involve the domestic violence professionals who know the unique needs of abused children. I am honored to have worked with Rep. Frangas and the Child Welfare Action Committee to get this passed.”

HB 1007 was sponsored in the House by Representative Jerry Frangas (D-Denver). Currently, these oversight groups include individuals from many different areas of expertise, but have not included domestic violence professionals.

In homes where families become victims of domestic violence, every family member is affected, though children are often most hurt. They are the most vulnerable in these difficult situations, and they lack a voice to represent themselves in the process. The inclusion of domestic violence experts in local oversight groups will help to ensure that children are protected and that their needs are not forgotten in the process. Personally, Senator Newell has years of volunteerism and advocacy for domestic violence victims and has committed to continue to work for those survivors in the legislature.