CT SB00444

Increases criminal penalties for family violence crimes committed within the vision or hearing of a minor child by 25% above the minimum and maximum sentences otherwise authorized, effective October 1, 2016.

Establishes a multi-agency working group to determine what information should be available to judges in relief from abuse proceedings and evaluate methods for sharing information across agencies serving family violence cases.

Working group consists of 14 members including representatives from Children and Families, Emergency Services and Public Protection, Education, the Judiciary, law enforcement, victim advocates, and legal professionals appointed by legislative leaders.

Requires the working group to submit findings and recommendations to the Criminal Justice Policy Advisory Commission by January 15, 2017, with the group terminating upon report submission.

First working group meeting must occur within 60 days of the bill's passage, with all appointments completed within 30 days.