MI SR0148

Recognizes October 2020 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, following the nationwide observance launched in October 1981 by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV).

Defines domestic violence as willful intimidation, physical assault, battery, sexual assault, and/or other abusive behavior as part of a systematic pattern of power and control perpetrated by one intimate partner against another, including physical, sexual, psychological violence, and emotional abuse.

Notes that Michigan Coalition to End Domestic & Sexual Violence (MCEDSV) member programs provided counseling, advocacy, shelter, and support for over 3,204 survivors during a 24-hour survey period in 2020, while educating over 313 community members.

Calls for continued education and action to address gender-based power dynamics and inequities that underlie domestic violence, and urges support for survivors and accountability for perpetrators.

Commits the Senate to supporting national, state, and local efforts to prevent domestic violence and create a safer environment by actively engaging in public and private prevention efforts.