House Bill 19, also known as “Victims of Domestic Violence and Dating Violence,” was introduced in the Florida House of Representatives on Dec. 6, 2024.
The bill aims to enhance support for victims of domestic and dating violence by establishing the HAVEN Coordinating Council within the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. The council is tasked with coordinating services and resources for victims statewide.
The Helping Abuse Victims Escape Now Coordinating Council aims to develop an interactive, real-time platform that syncs with databases used by law enforcement. With this service, users can create private emergency phone numbers and provide vital information to authorities, enabling timely reactions.
Representatives from a range of industries will make up the council, including the FDLE, local law enforcement organizations, programs for victim services, advocacy groups for victims of domestic abuse, and specialists in family law and technology.
HB 19 includes provisions to fund the council’s work. Local Leon County groups that support women and girls impacted by dating and domestic violence will benefit.
These groups can increase their services, provide more direct assistance and improve victim safety measures with greater funding.
Oasis Center for Women & Girls is a nonprofit organization that advocates for women and girls in the Tallahassee area. Through counseling and other helpful programs, the nonprofit focuses on improving the mental well-being of women in unsafe conditions.
Kanijah Stevens, the intake coordinator, spoke on the resources used at the center that provide a safe space for women who face dating and domestic violence. She believes the bill can bring awareness to this cause throughout the community.
“At least three of every five of our clients would be experiencing domestic violence; we have a clinical social worker on-site to provide services to women that experience domestic violence,” she said.
Stevens also referenced Refuge House as the leading resource in Tallahassee for victims of domestic violence. Refuge House staff did not respond to requests for a comment.
A Victim Advocate Unit run by the Leon County Sheriff’s Office also provides round-the-clock aid, including crisis intervention, counseling and help with legal procedures.
While the primary focus of HB 19 is services, improved coordination and resources may result in improved legal safeguards for women and girls.
They will have access to legal representatives who can guide them through the more efficient and encouraging process of securing restraining orders, filing charges against abusers and pursuing justice.