Rep. Abel Herrero Files Legislation To Protect Domestic Violence Victims
February 23rd, 2009Mary’s Law legislation brings the safety of domestic violence victims to forefront of session activity.
Austin, Texas – Rep. Abel Herrero (D-Robstown) filed HB 1506, Texas’ version of Mary’s Law, a bill that allows GPS monitoring of persons charged with domestic violence offenses. If enacted, Texas will be the 12th state to allow courts to order a domestic violence offender to be fitted with a GPS tracking device as a condition of bond or a upon the issuing of a protective order. The receiver may be given to the victim or a law enforcement agency. The victim is alerted when the offender is within a court-specified radius.
“The State of Texas has the utmost obligation to its citizens to ensure their safety and well-being. By implementing HB 1506, Texas can further protect those that have fallen victim to domestic violence,” said Rep. Herrero. “Unfortunately, time and time again, we have seen those who have had the strength and courage to ask for protection still harmed due to the lack of monitoring. So, the state must be clear that it does not tolerate attempts to intimidate a victim and will monitor an offender’s action if necessary. “
Mary’s Law is named for Michigan resident Mary Babb, who was murdered outside her place of employment, by her estranged husband after filing a restraining order against him. Research indicates that 69% of females and 81% of males are attacked after filing a protective order.