CA Assembly Passes Rubio Bill Allowing Victims to Use Remote Technology As They Seek Protection From Abusers

September 8, 2021

SACRAMENTO, CA – The California State Assembly today, in a 78-0 vote, passed a bill by Senator Susan Rubio (D-Baldwin Park) that will provide greater protections and safety for victims as they try to leave dangerous situations. 

Senate Bill SB 538 strengthens protections for survivors of domestic violence by requiring California’s Superior Courts to maintain procedures allowing parties to electronically file for Domestic Violence Restraining Orders and Gun Violence Restraining Orders. The bill will also allow parties and witnesses to appear remotely at a hearing for the petition.

“We should make it easier for victims to seek protection during one of the most terrifying times in their lives,” Senator Susan Rubio said. “We need to eliminate barriers that prevent survivors of abuse from obtaining domestic violence and gun violence restraining orders. Remote testimony is a critical part of the solution, and I am grateful to see this bill pass through the California State Assembly with bipartisan support. I want to thank San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria and San Diego City Attorney Mara Elliott for their support and collaboration.”

“I am grateful to Senator Rubio for authoring SB 538 and to the members of the California legislature who helped pass this common-sense bill to use technology to avoid further trauma to survivors in court settings,” San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria said. “The City of San Diego is a proud sponsor of this important legislation and is committed to expanding access to protective orders for survivors of gun and domestic violence, and other tools to put survivors first and preserve their rights in the criminal justice system.”

“This bill empowers victims of domestic violence by providing access to justice without subjecting them to the trauma of facing their abusers in a courtroom,” San Diego City Attorney Mara W. Elliott said. “I thank Senator Rubio for working with my Office to protect victims from intimidation and retaliation, and urge Governor Newsom to stand with them by signing SB 538 into law.”

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Media Contact: Edward Barrera, edward.barrera@sen.ca.gov