Denison: Strengthening Law Against Domestic Violence, Unclaimed Property, Memorial Day

“Every human being is intended to have a character of his own; to be what no others are, and to do what no other can do.” – William Henry Channing

Strengthening Laws against Domestic Violence (SB 320)

Another bill I am proud to say we were able to pass this year will overhaul Missouri’s domestic violence laws for the first time in four decades. The bill we approved is based on suggestions that came from a specially created task force organized by our state attorney general’s office.

One of their most important suggestions was a change to how Missouri handles orders of protection. Under the bill, judges will have additional authority to customize the terms of protection orders based on the particular facts of the situation. The legislation also ensures people seeking a protection order will not be charged filing fees when asking courts to enforce protection orders.

Another important change contained in the bill will remove an expiration date for a program created in 2007 that gives victims of sexual assault, rape, stalking and domestic violence an alternative mailing address. The purpose of the program is to prevent abusers from tacking down victims through mail or public documents. It allows victims of abuse to have mail sent to the secretary of state's office under the alternative address and then forwarded to their home. These alternative addresses can be used on government documents and public filings.

These are important changes that provide an extra level of protection to Missourians who have been the victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. We want to continue to provide every protection we can to these victims and this legislation will help us to do that.

Unclaimed Property

The Missouri State Treasurer’s Office provided my office with a list of citizens who have Unclaimed Property. To file a claim or to check to see if you may have Unclaimed Property, you may visit wwwShowMeMoney.com, or write: Missouri State Treasurer, PO Box 1004, Jefferson City, MO, 65102-1004.

Memorial Day

Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation's service. This year we celebrate Memorial Day on May 30^th. Please have a safe holiday weekend as you honor those who have served our country.

I look forward to hearing from you. If you ever have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact my office. Best wishes.