JEFFERSON CITY—The Senate Seniors, Families and Pensions Committee held a public hearing today on legislation sponsored by Sen. Gina Walsh, D-Bellefontaine Neighbors, to create unpaid leave for employees affected by domestic violence. The measure is part of Sen. Walsh’s efforts this year to protect survivors of domestic violence.

Senate Bill 712 lays out certain provisions regarding businesses that employ individuals who are or have a family or household member that is being assaulted, battered, coerced, harassed, sexually assaulted, unlawfully imprisoned, and stalked.  Permission to take leave would be granted to seek medical attention, recover from an injury, obtain victim services or counseling, participate in safety planning, and pursue legal assistance.  If passed, the attorney general would enforce provisions of this act.

A witness from the Center for Family Law, which often handles cases relating to domestic violence, testified before the committee on the time-consuming process victims face when seeking legal protection from abusers and how that can jeopardize their employment.

“Through the years, I have seen the worry and frustration of clients as they deal with the courthouse process. Applying for an Order of Protection is a rigorous process, as it should be,” the witness said. “However, in their attempt to protect themselves, their worry often comes from fear of missing work and of losing their jobs. They are already overwhelmed with the question of how they are going to move forward in their lives. Senate Bill 712 would at least give these victims some comfort to know that as they seek their day in court to face their abuser and obtain relief, their jobs are protected and will be there for them after the process.”

The National Council of Jewish Women-St. Louis Section was also present at the hearing. A representative discussed how domestic violence affects employers as well as employees. According to the group, the loss of earnings for victims of domestic violence totals around $18 million a year. The cost to employers, from absenteeism, reduced productivity and increased medical costs, is approximately $5 billion a year.

“I am honored to sponsor legislation in the Missouri General Assembly that would reduce domestic violence against women, men and children while helping these victims escape their attackers,” Walsh said.  “While victims of domestic violence simply want to ensure the safety of themselves and their families, we must take steps to work with their employers so they will have a job to return to after taking necessary leave when searching for help.  I know my colleagues in the Senate and House will see the immediate need to move these measures quickly through the legislative process and onto the governor’s desk for his signature.”

Senate Bill 712 must receive a final vote by the committee to proceed to the Senate floor for possible debate. 

For more information on Sen. Walsh’s sponsored legislation, visit her official Missouri Senate website at www.senate.mo.gov/walsh.