New resources for victims of domestic violence are now available courtesy of the Texas Health and Human Services Commission.
The commission will now provide printable documents for law enforcement, campus peace officers, and health care providers to give to victims of domestic violence that inform them of their rights and show where they can quickly access support and protection.
These resources will be provided to those experiencing not only family violence but also dating violence, stalking, harassment, and terroristic threats.
Council Member Gay Donnell Willis (District 13), who chairs the City of Dallas Domestic Violence and Human Trafficking Task Force, said, “We are grateful to legislative leadership for their wisdom in making available resources to those experiencing domestic violence.”
Additionally, the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) has launched a new webpage that shares contact information for the National Domestic Violence Hotline, the Texas Department of Public Safety victims’ support services, and the HHSC Family Violence Program.
The site also includes information on how to file criminal charges, obtain a protective order, and terminate a residential lease if needed.
The HHSC must make these resources available per SB 1325, also known as the Natalia Cox Act, which was signed into law by Gov. Greg Abbott in May of this year.
The bill was named in honor of Natalia Cox, a college student who was murdered by a man she had just recently met and gone on two dates. Sen. Carol Alvarado (D-Houston) and Rep. Vikki Goodwin (D-Austin) authored the Natalia Cox Act.
“I am grateful for the Health and Human Services Commission’s quick implementation of the Natalia Cox Act,” Alvarado said. “Natalia’s tragic passing highlights the critical need for awareness and accessibility of resources for those facing domestic violence and stalking.”
“Despite the availability of help, her story sadly reflects the consequences when such resources remain unknown or inaccessible to those in dire need,” Alvarado continued. “I am hopeful that these resources will help aid survivors of domestic violence as they determine the best route to ensure their safety as they heal after their traumatic experiences.”
More information on family violence resources from the HHSC can be found here.