The new law (2009-H 5227A and 2009-S 0510) increases the assessment from $25 to $125 for any person who is convicted of, placed on probation for or whose case is filed in relation to a crime involving domestic violence.
Domestic violence is a serious problem in our society, causing emotional and physical pain in its victims. We need to do everything in our power to stop it, from providing the victims with counseling and support to enacting tough laws to deter abusers and ensure that justice is served, said Representative Coderre (D-Dist. 60, Pawtucket).
Eighty percent of the assessment will be provided to the Rhode Island Coalition Against Domestic Violence (RICADV) for programs to assist victims of domestic violence, with the remaining 20 percent going to the general fund.
Im pleased the my colleagues in the General Assembly recognize how important it is to enact legislation that serves as a deterrent to domestic violence offenders, said Senator Goodwin (D-Dist. 1, Providence). It is very fitting that the fees paid by those convicted of domestic violence will now go directly to programs that will help their victims get over these heinous crimes.
Established in 1979, RICADV works to assist Rhode Islands six shelters for battered women in planning, advocacy, education and program development. The coalition has provided support for battered women and their children through expanding throughout the years.