Mrvan files legislation to assist domestic violence survivors

Northwest Indiana's representative in Congress wants to make it easier for survivors of domestic violence to access appropriate, trauma-informed services when they're needed.

U.S. Rep. Frank J. Mrvan, D-Highland, last week filed the Safe Recovery Together Act in the Republican-controlled U.S. House.

It proposes to establish a federal demonstration grant program to give domestic violence survivors access to substance use disorder programs that allow custodial parents and their children to remain together throughout the course of treatment.

Mrvan said his goal is to address the lasting impacts of domestic violence, including struggles with mental illness, substance use disorder and housing instability.

"I look forward to working with my colleagues to pass this legislation and provide support and resources to survivors of domestic violence throughout our communities," said Mrvan, whose 1st House District includes Lake, Porter and northwest LaPorte counties.

The legislation is supported by, among others, YWCA USA and the National Resource Center on Domestic Violence.

"We are particularly appreciative of the bill's intentionality to create pathways for safe housing and sustainability supports, such as direct cash assistance. Understanding the lifespan ripple effect of domestic violence, this investment is a solution that addresses the interconnectedness of what survivors need to be safe and heal," said Shenna Morris, the center's vice president of policy & systems change.

Dr. Carole Warshaw, director of the National Center on Domestic Violence, Trauma and Mental Health, said research shows more than 70% of domestic violence programs see an increased need for mental health and substance use services, yet most feel unprepared to meet that need.

"Thank you to Rep. Mrvan for his leadership in support of survivors of domestic violence and their families by introducing the Safe Recovery Together Act that highlights the substance-use related effects of domestic violence — including abuse specifically targeted towards a partner’s use of substances — and the critical need to support the development, implementation and evaluation of more integrated, collaborative approaches," Warshaw said.

The legislation is awaiting action by the House Committee on Education and the Workforce.