Mason Pledges to Reform Domestic Violence Law

GURNEE, Ill. – Preparing to return to Springfield for her second legislative session, state Rep. Joyce Mason, D-Gurnee, is reaffirming her commitment to addressing domestic violence.

“There are too many aspects of our justice system that work in direct opposition to a victim’s ability to successfully leave a situation of abuse,” Mason said. “Part of what causes domestic violence to continue to occur at the rate it does is the lack of support offered to victims who are seeking help.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control, domestic violence, or intimate partner violence, occurs frequently throughout the U.S., with millions of women and men suffering from abuse each year. The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence reports one in three women and one in four men will experience some form of partner-initiated physical abuse during their lifetimes.

“In case after case, we see the language of our laws silencing victims and protecting abusers. It’s past time we make our courtrooms places that victims can turn to with trust and confidence,” Mason said. “I’m committed to championing legislation that will eliminate undue legal burdens placed on domestic violence victims and make it easier for them to get the justice, healing and freedom they deserve.”