Assembly Panel Approves Singleton & Vainieri Huttle Bill to Expand Current Law Further Protecting Victims of Domestic Violence

Bill Would Increase Scope of State's Victim Notification System "VINE" to Include Changes in Protection Orders Among Reasons to Alert Victims

(Trenton) - Aiming to increase protection of victims of domestic violence, an assembly panel approved legislation sponsored by Assembly Democrats Troy Singleton and Valerie Vainieri Huttle that would notify victims if changes have been made to restraining orders as well as when the defendant has been released from custody or released on bail.

"This legislation expands the scope of existing law to provide greater protection to residents who have been victimized," said Singleton (D- Burlington). "Orders of protection ensure the safety of the victims. They should be made aware if the status of that protection alters in anyway so they may take precautions if needed."

Currently, the Attorney general operates the Victim Notification Everyday System (VINE) and applies to all victims. The bill (A-3544) would amend current law to require prosecutors to notify the victim when a defendant is released from custody to automatically notify a domestic violence victim, through the VINE system regarding any changes to protection orders in addition to defendant release information.

"Ensuring that state law does the absolute best to protect and inform the citizens of New Jersey is our job," said Vainieri Huttle (D-Bergen). "As long as the victim is made aware of a change in their perpetrators status as it relates to them, they will be able to act quickly, inform authorities, and make the best decision for their safety."

Under the bill's provision's, the victim's location would remain confidential and not appear on any documents or records to which the defendant will have access. The Attorney general would continue to maintain this automatic notification system. The bill would authorize the AG to adopt rules, regulations and guideline to effectuate the purposes of the bill.

The Assembly Judiciary Committee approved the measure today; and it will now go to the desk of the Assembly Speaker for further consideration.

To read more, please visit the New Jersey General Assembly Democratic Office Web site.

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