Safe Housing Act Introduced

WCASA and the Wisconsin Coalition Against Domestic Violence [WCADV] are pleased that Rep. Scott Suder and Sen. Spencer Coggs have introduced legislation that would allow victims of sexual assault, domestic violence and stalking to break their leases without incurring severe financial consequences when they are in danger. This legislation also would not allow lease provisions that punish victims for contacting emergency services.

Perpetrators of sexual assault often select victims who live in their own neighborhoods or even in their own residential buildings. When such an assault occurs, victims understandably desire to move in order protect themselves and/or their children from the perptrator. Unfortunately, many landlords do not allow these victims to break their leases without incurring severe financial hardship. The Safe Housing Act will help ensure that no victim has to choose between economic ruin and further victimization.

Please contact your legislators and urge them to, “Support Senate Bill 269 and Assembly Bill 520, the Safe Housing Act. " Here is a sample letter you can use.

Also consider sending an op-ed or letter to the editor of your local paper.