Massachusetts Passes Coercive Control Bill! What this Means for Survivors

In this episode, I discuss the recent passing of the Coercive Control Bill in Massachusetts, the celebration I attended with many incredible survivors and advocates. And what the passing of the bill means for survivors of domestic abuse.

Key Points:

• Massachusetts unanimously passed the Coercive Control Bill, becoming the 7th state to classify coercive control as a form of domestic violence.
• The bill (H4744) expands protections against abuse and exploitation, including laws against revenge porn.
• Coercive control is defined as a pattern of behavior intended to threaten, intimidate, harass, isolate, control, or compel compliance of a family or household member.
• The law doesn't criminalize coercive control but allows it to be considered a criminal violation of a protective order.

Highlights:

• Meeting with advocates and survivors at the celebration event
• Discussion on the need for further legislation and support for survivors
• Importance of addressing post-separation abuse and ongoing support for survivors

Resources Mentioned:

• Perfect Prey podcast
• Dr. Lisa Fontes' website
• Article on Massachusetts Coercive Control Law
• Coercive Control Consulting - Legislation Information

Books Mentioned:

• "Invisible Chains" by Dr. Lisa Fontes
• "Framed" by Dr. Christine Cociola (upcoming release)

Call to Action:

• Educate yourself about coercive control
• Contact your local domestic violence agency if you suspect coercive control
• Reach out to state legislators to support coercive control legislation
• Share ideas for supporting survivors, especially in post-separation scenarios

Get Involved:

• Check out TRAC (Together Rising Above Coercion) in Massachusetts
• Look for similar initiatives in your state

Join the conversation! Share your thoughts, experiences, and ideas for supporting survivors in the comments below.

Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe to the podcast for more content on domestic abuse awareness and support.