ASSEMBLYMEMBER TED LIEU
53RD ASSEMBLY DISTRICT
For Immediate Release: February 19, 2008
Contact: David Ford
Phone: (916) 319-2053

Assemblymember Lieu Introduces Legislation to Protect Victims of Domestic Violence

(Sacramento, CA) – Assemblymember Ted W. Lieu (D-Torrance) introduced AB 2052 today, which would allow victims of domestic violence to terminate a housing lease in order to find other housing. This would help victims with a court order to relocate without being concerned about breaking a lease or being charged for early termination.

AB 2052 would ensure that landlords and property managers work with victims to ensure their safety. These women and men have already been victimized and should not be subject to further abuse simply because they are under legal obligations to remain on the property. By allowing victims out of their lease, the threat of future violence is removed, making the victims and property safer.

“Victims of domestic violence need to be afforded every avenue to remove themselves from danger,” said Assemblymember Lieu. “This bill would allow these women and men to move quickly from the premises.”

AB 2052 would allow victims, with a court order or police report, to cancel the remainder of their lease or rental agreement. The tenant must present the landlord or property management company with proof of domestic violence and 14 days notice of termination. This bill would also prohibit property owners from revealing any forwarding information, ensuring victim confidentiality.

“It is necessary that victims of domestic violence are able to relocate without worrying about breaking their lease,” stated Assemblymember Lieu. “By remaining on the property, they are not only creating a danger to themselves, but other tenants. This bill will help protect all parties from the damaging effects of domestic violence.”

AB 2052 will be referred to a policy committee and heard in the coming months.