Central Bucks Today

State Reps. Shelby Labs and Lindsay Powell have introduced the Victims of Violence Relocation Act, a bipartisan effort aimed at expanding protections for victims of violent crimes in Pennsylvania. Under the proposed legislation, eligible violent crime survivors would be entitled to relocation assistance and a longer timeframe for requesting such aid.

Representative Labs emphasized the importance of the bill, stating, “Increasing protections for all victims as they heal is vital. This bipartisan legislation improves on the steps taken by Act 148 of 2018 and makes sure that more of Pennsylvania’s most vulnerable can be supported and protected.”

Representative Powell echoed Labs' sentiments, expressing her pride in partnering on the critical legislation. She added, “My heart breaks for these victims, and it’s imperative that we take steps to alleviate unnecessary burdens to help them address their trauma.”

The Pennsylvania Coalition Against Domestic Violence highlighted the prevalence of domestic violence, stating that one in three women, one in four men, and nearly half of LGBTQ+ individuals will experience such violence in their lifetime.

Labs represents the 143rd Legislative District, while Powell represents the 21st Legislative District in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.

The proposed bill, H.B. 2162, aims to provide survivors of violent crimes with the necessary agency to navigate their recovery journey and ensure they have access to vital support services. The legislation would extend the timeframe for requesting relocation assistance from 90 to 180 days after the crime occurred, allowing survivors more time to access the needed resources for their healing process.

The initiative by Reps. Labs and Powell underscores their commitment to protecting and supporting victims of violent crimes across the Commonwealth.