Feb. 02, 2021
HARRISBURG – Seeking to provide further protections for victims of domestic violence and child abuse in Pennsylvania, Rep. Tarah Toohil (R-Luzerne) has introduced two proposals in the House of Representatives.
House Bill 254 would make it easier for victims of domestic violence to obtain police reports concerning their own abuse.
“To protect themselves, these victims may need to obtain copies of relevant police reports concerning past abuse but lack the means to pay for them,” said Toohil. “My legislation will require law enforcement agencies to make such reports available to victims of domestic violence, as well as officials from other government agencies working to protect a victim.”
House Bill 294 would allow courts to order greater protections for abused children. Under current law, a court may temporarily modify a custody order to halt the abuse of minor children. However, some courts have been reluctant to modify an existing custody order through a protection from abuse (PFA) proceeding, believing they need to engage in a full-blown custody hearing.
“My legislation provides clarity for courts and will result in expedited and necessary provisions to be included in a PFA order when a child has been abused by the defendant or is at risk of such harm,” Toohil explained. “I firmly believe this bill will eliminate ambiguity as it relates to custody provisions included in PFA orders and will better protect victims of domestic violence and their children.”
Toohil is currently seeking additional co-sponsors for both measures, which were referred to the House Judiciary Committee for consideration.
Representative Tarah Toohil
116th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Contact: Rep. Toohil’s Office
717-260-6136
RepToohil.com /
Facebook.com/RepToohil