As a survivor of domestic abuse, both during my childhood and adulthood, I understand firsthand the torment and fear involved in these situations. I grew up watching my mother feel unsafe and unsupported by local law enforcement. We lived in fear but never made the reports we should have, believing they would fall on deaf ears. As an adult, I became involved with two men with histories of domestic abuse, histories I knew nothing about because their pasts were hidden from public knowledge. Prior victims of these individuals were not empowered or supported by our local law enforcement, their reports downplayed and disregarded.

It’s time for Indiana to adopt a domestic violence offender registry like Savannah's Law in Tennessee. Since its implementation in 2019, Savannah's Law has provided transparency and community safety by allowing people to access verifiable information about known abusers. This registry offers an invaluable tool for victims who deserve to know if they are at risk, enabling them to make informed decisions about their safety.

Domestic violence is a pervasive problem. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 1 in 4 women in the United States experience severe intimate partner physical violence. While Indiana law mandates the reporting of certain classes of abuse, access to historical records is not readily available to the general public, allowing offenders to continue their cycles of abuse undetected.

To truly protect Hoosiers from domestic violence, we need to pass legislation that provides a public registry. This action will serve as a deterrent for repeat offenders who will now know their history follows them and offer peace of mind to potential victims who can access reliable information about their partners or acquaintances. This will not only empower individuals with the knowledge they need to protect themselves but also foster a culture of transparency and accountability.

Given these compelling reasons, I'm calling on concerned citizens, lawmakers, and community advocates to support this initiative. Let us together pave the path towards a safer Indiana. Let's give victims the resources and support they deserve by implementing a domestic violence offender registry in our state.

Please take a moment to envision the change we can make and sign this petition to protect what matters most: our safety and the safety of those we hold dear. Stand with survivors and let us build a community where they are safe, informed, and supported. Your signature can make a world of difference in achieving justice and protection for all Hoosiers.