In a move to combat family and dating violence across the state, Texas officials have rolled out new resources to support victims. The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) has announced the implementation of Senate Bill 1325. Dubbed the 'Family Violence Notice, Resources to Texans', which was signed into law earlier this year by Governor Greg Abbott. Dallas City Councilmember Gay Donnell Willis, who also chairs the City of Dallas Domestic Violence and Human Trafficking Task Force, praised the move, stating, "We are grateful to legislative leadership for their wisdom in making available resources to those experiencing domestic violence", as reported by the City of Dallas.
The legislation, which was prompted by growing concerns over the impacts of family violence. Introduced by State Sen. Carol Alvarado and State Rep. Vikki Goodwin, it requires that law enforcement, campus peace officers, and health care providers be equipped with printable resources. These materials are aimed at informing victims about their rights and the support services available to them. Crystal Starkey, an associate commissioner of HHSC Family and Youth Services and Supports, clarified, "We want to make sure Texans who feel threatened, or experience family violence know where to turn to for help." In her remarks, Councilmember Willis highlighted the importance of the legislation for providing immediate life-saving information to survivors, per the City of Dallas.
Named in honor of Natalia Cox, a college student who tragically fell victim to dating violence, the Natalia Cox Act aims to enhance awareness and accessibility of support for victims. Alvarado, reflecting on Natalia's story, shared her gratitude for the swift implementation of the Act by HHSC, emphasizing the significance of the resources made available. "Natalia’s tragic passing highlights the critical need for awareness and accessibility of resources for those facing domestic violence and stalking," Alvarado said, as per the City of Dallas.
Additionally, HHSC has launched a new webpage featuring vital information on services such as the National Domestic Violence Hotline, the Texas Department of Public Safety, and the HHSC Family Violence Program. Essentials like filing criminal charges, obtaining a protective order, and terminating a residential lease because of family or dating violence are also addressed on the platform. Furthermore, both the notice and the
If you or someone you know is in a dangerous situation, immediate help is available. Visit the National Domestic Violence Hotline website, call 800-799-SAFE (7233), 800-787-3224 for TTY, or text "START" to 88788 anytime. Further guidance on legal matters such as protective orders or lease termination due to family or dating violence can be found on the Texas Advocacy Project and Texas Council on Family Violence websites.
