Governor Signs Holden’s Domestic Violence Bill

A legislative bill crafted by Assemblymember Chris Holden (D-Pasadena) to increase funding for Domestic Violence Shelters was signed into law by Gov. Jerry Brown Monday.

The bill, AB 139, strengthens penalties that perpetrators of domestic violence are required to pay. 

“I am grateful to the Governor for signing this important bill that will help make resources available to women and children fleeing violent situations,” Holden, who represents South Pasadena in the assembly, was quoted as saying in a news statement. 

“The nation’s first modern, women's shelter opened in my district in Pasadena, in 1964 offering a refuge for women who had been physically and emotionally abused. Fully funding domestic violence shelters such as Haven House is critical and provides a safety net for those who live in fear.”

AB 139 will provide increased funds for local domestic violence shelters because it clears a hurdle in the law that requires those convicted of domestic violence to pay a minimum fee of $500 fee, instead of a fine, after they being granted probation, according to the statement from Holden’s office.

AB 139 unanimously passed both Houses and received support from domestic violence shelters throughout the state, as well as various women’s organizations. 

AB 139 will become effective Jan. 1, 2014.