This Small Change May Save Domestic Violence Survivors From Partners Who Abuse the Child Welfare System

June 5, 2024

Since reporting is anonymous, abusers often use the child welfare system to punish their victims, but a slight adjustment in a New York law could finally help protect survivors. Hannah Mercuris, CFR’s senior policy counsel, is quoted in this Jezebel article.

“[Investigations, even those that don’t result in family separation] can really upend someone’s life. A lot of people lose employment during the investigations, or their employment is compromised or paused and maybe put on probation from their job. CPS can talk to neighbors or schools, really share [a person’s] business around in a way that is really full of shame and stigma,” says Mercuris, adding, “and can put someone’s housing at risk or make domestic violence survivors less safe.”

Read the full story here.