Massachusetts Passes Coercive Control Bill! What this Means for Survivors

In this episode, I discuss the recent passing of the Coercive Control Bill in Massachusetts, the celebration I attended with many incredible survivors and advocates. And what the passing of the bill means for survivors of domestic abuse. 

Key Points:

• Massachusetts unanimously passed the Coercive Control Bill, becoming the 7th state to classify coercive control as a form of domestic violence.
• The bill (H4744) expands protections against abuse and exploitation, including laws against revenge porn.
• Coercive control is defined as a pattern of behavior intended to threaten, intimidate, harass, isolate, control, or compel compliance of a family or household member.
• The law doesn't criminalize coercive control but allows it to be considered a criminal violation of a protective order.

Highlights:

• Meeting with advocates and survivors at the celebration event
• Discussion on the need for further legislation and support for survivors
• Importance of addressing post-separation abuse and ongoing support for survivors

Resources Mentioned:

• Perfect Prey podcast
• Dr. Lisa Fontes' website
• Article on Massachusetts Coercive Control Law
• Coercive Control Consulting - Legislation Information

Books Mentioned:

• "Invisible Chains" by Dr. Lisa Fontes
• "Framed" by Dr. Christine Cociola (upcoming release)

Call to Action:

• Educate yourself about coercive control
• Contact your local domestic violence agency if you suspect coercive control
• Reach out to state legislators to support coercive control legislation
• Share ideas for supporting survivors, especially in post-separation scenarios

Get Involved:

• Check out TRAC (Together Rising Above Coercion) in Massachusetts
• Look for similar initiatives in your state

Join the conversation! Share your thoughts, experiences, and ideas for supporting survivors in the comments below.

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