My daughter, Amber Pippin, was killed when she was run over by her boyfriend—an act of domestic violence that ended her life.  Tragically, this is not an isolated incident, as millions across the United States endure abuse every year, often without warning that their partner has a violent history. This petition seeks to change that by demanding a state-level registry for domestic abusers, similar to those maintained for sex offenders, to protect potential victims and provide transparency for individuals entering into relationships.

According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 1 in 4 women and 1 in 9 men experience severe intimate partner physical violence, intimate partner contact sexual violence, and/or intimate partner stalking with impacts such as injury, fearfulness, post-traumatic stress disorder, use of victim services, contraction of sexually transmitted diseases, etc. Yet, many survivors might have been spared if they had known about their partner’s abusive past. Therefore, establishing a registry for domestic abusers is not just a preventive measure but a lifesaving one.

By registering domestic abusers, we not only empower potential victims with critical information but also deter repeat offenses. While background checks are standard for employment and other scenarios, they rarely encompass domestically violent pasts unless criminal charges were filed and convicted, leaving a gap that this registry can fill.

Several states have taken partial steps by enacting laws that allow some victims to access their partner’s criminal records, but this is not enough. A public, easy-to-access registry akin to the sex offender list would serve as a stronger deterrent and offer more comprehensive protection. This system would also hold offenders accountable and encourage them to seek the help they need to change their behavior.

We cannot afford to let another Amber die when there are preventative measures we can take. By signing this petition, you support the creation of a registry that will safeguard countless vulnerable individuals from entering into potentially dangerous situations. Let’s partner together to make our communities safer, informed, and more transparent.

Add your voice to this cause by signing the petition. Let's prevent future tragedies and protect those most vulnerable from the horrors of domestic abuse.