Governor Newsom Signs Rubio’s Bill to Help Domestic Violence Service Providers
SACRAMENTO, CA – Today, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed Sen. Susan Rubio’s bill (D-Baldwin Park) that will ensure domestic violence service providers are able to keep services accessible during and after COVID-19.
Senate Bill 1276 removes the 10 percent cash or in-kind matching requirement for state grants awarded to domestic violence programs that provide essential resources. In addition to state requirements, domestic violence service providers must also meet match fund requirements for federal funding sources.
“This change in state policy is long overdue, and the COVID-19 pandemic has made it even more urgent,” Senator Rubio said. “It is critical that we provide some relief to our domestic violence shelters serving our most vulnerable populations. I want to thank our sponsor, the California Partnership to End Domestic Violence, for working on this critical legislation and Governor Newsom for also recognizing the need for this change.”
"Eliminating this matching funds requirement eases funding and administrative burdens on domestic violence programs, allowing them greater flexibility in how they utilize their funding and in kind donations to best meet the needs of survivors. This comes at a critical juncture, when the COVID-19 pandemic has made it essential to adapt their work supporting survivors, families, and communities," said Krista Niemczyk, Public Policy Director of California Partnership to End Domestic Violence.
Similar programs such as the Rape Victim Counseling Centers and Human Trafficking Victims Assistance do not mandate this matching fund requirement.
It is expected, with ongoing social distancing requirements and possible economic downturn, that domestic violence service providers will continue to be negatively impacted. This bill now eliminates the match requirement and will provide some flexibility and relief to programs providing essential services in our communities.
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Media contact: edward.barrera@sen.ca.gov