Protecting the victims of domestic abuse

Governor Branstad has signed into law legislation that the Senate unanimously approved last year. Senate File 93 toughens the penalty for domestic abuse that includes strangulation or choking.

Choking is one of the most common forms of domestic abuse. It’s an intentional act, and often indicates more deadly domestic assaults in the future. That’s why states are cracking down on choking.

Under current Iowa law, abusers often get just a slap on the wrist, spending little or no time in jail. With this legislation, we’re sending a message to abusers: you will be punished and held accountable.