Speaker Lucas: House Passes Comprehensive Domestic Violence Legislation

Deters future crimes, promotes awareness, and transforms culture

COLUMBIA, SC – House Speaker Jay Lucas (District 65-Darlington) released the following statement after the House passed H. 3433, the Domestic Violence Reform Act.  This piece of comprehensive legislation puts in place significant provisions to protect South Carolinians from domestic abuse.

“Far too many South Carolinians have tragically lost their lives as a result of domestic violence. We have an obligation to protect every citizen by passing laws that will institute positive change. This monumental reform legislation increases penalties to deter future assaults, protects the rights of all South Carolinians, promotes awareness through education, and fundamentally attempts to transform our culture so that we can put an end to domestic abuse,” stated Speaker Jay Lucas.

The House has been working on this issue since September when an ad hoc committee chaired by Representative Shannon Erickson (District 124-Beaufort) began holding hearings to thoroughly investigate ways to protect women, men, and children from domestic abuse.  This robust bill was crafted after months of extensive testimony from victims, law enforcement agencies, and concerned citizens.

“Domestic violence reform is a priority for the House this year,” Speaker Lucas continued. “The ideas we have put forth deserve considerable discussion and I am committed to working with Senate leadership and the Attorney General to ensure Governor Haley receives a bill on her desk for signature sooner rather than later.”