Domestic Violence Bill Passes

Domestic violence is the target of a bill now awaiting the governor’s signature. Several representatives express disappointment that the Senate stripped a provision allowing “excited utterances” to be used in court. Representative Catherine Hanaway of Warson Woods tells colleagues it’s a legal term that would have allowed statements made at the scene to be admissible in court. But those objecting to its removal fail to send it back to conference to be placed back in. Sponsor Representative Vicky Riback-Wilson of Columbia says the issue became too controversial and pledges to return to it next year. The bill creates new law concerning domestic violence, separate from the assault statutes. It expands domestic violence to dating situations and enhances penalties for repeat offenders.