MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) - Alabama first lady Dianne Bentley is urging legislators to strengthen the state’s domestic violence laws and improve resources for victims.
The first lady on Wednesday announced a legislative agenda that is focused on fighting domestic violence. Bentley said her husband’s 2016 budget recommendations include $5 million for improving shelters across the state.
The first lady is also backing legislation that would provide greater punishment for those who violate protective orders in domestic violence cases.
The bill will also require officers to file police reports on domestic violence incidents even if an arrest is not made. Law enforcement officers would also have to inform abuse victims of how to contact their local shelter and of their legal rights in pursuing criminal or civil charges against the abuser.
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