Domestic violence is a silent epidemic that affects millions of individuals, and the heartbreak is all too personal for many. For survivors, the trauma doesn't end after escaping the initial situation. There's a constant fear of their abuser finding them again or repeating the same cycle of violence with new victims.

The reality is, domestic violence offenders can easily cross state lines in the United States and start anew, evading past convictions and accountability measures. Survivors don’t get that chance to move on. It is essential to have a national domestic violence registry, one that incorporates tiered levels, to provide transparency. This transparency is crucial for enabling both law enforcement and potential partners of offenders to have the necessary information to safeguard themselves and their communities.

The numbers speak volumes. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men in the U.S. have experienced some form of physical violence by an intimate partner. Domestic violence is estimated to affect more than 10 million individuals in the United States every year, yet many cases go unreported or are inadequately addressed due to the mobility of offenders.

A comprehensive national registry would not only act as a deterrent to offenders but would also promote consistent legal repercussions across state lines, ensuring that individuals cannot escape their past behaviors by simply moving. However, for the registry to be effective, it should be structured with tiered levels to indicate the severity and recency of the offenses, much like the sex offender registries currently in place. This tiered system would categorize offenders based on their criminal history and risk level, aiding law enforcement agencies in focusing their resources more effectively.

Furthermore, with a national registry, survivors would gain a sense of empowerment and assurance that their community is aware of their abuser's history, reducing the likelihood of repeat offenses occurring unnoticed. It ensures that abusers are held accountable, which is a significant step in breaking the cycle of domestic violence.

We urge lawmakers to take action to protect survivors and prevent further harm by implementing a national domestic violence registry with tiered levels. Survivors deserve to live without the perpetual fear of abuse. We need to create accountability for offenders and through such measures, we can save lives.

Silence and inaction protect abusers, but transparency and accountability protect survivors. Sign this petition to demand the creation of a national domestic violence registry. Your voice can make a difference.