Melanie’s Law to Enhance Domestic Violence Protections

Lawmakers at the New York state Capitol are advocating for the passage of Melanie’s Law, a bipartisan effort to close a loophole in orders of protection. The law aims to ensure that courts issue orders of protection to immediate family members or household members of a victim. The inspiration behind the law is Cheryl Chianese-Cavalli, whose daughter Melanie was murdered by her ex-boyfriend nearly two years ago. Despite Cheryl having an order of protection against the abuser, Melanie was denied one, ultimately leading to her tragic death. State Sen. Michelle Hinchey and Republican state Sen. Rob Rolison are pushing for the passage of Melanie’s Law, emphasizing the importance of public safety. Chianese-Cavalli is determined to see this law passed, stating that if it can save just one life, it will fulfill their mission. The bill passed in the state Senate last session but did not pass in the Assembly. The hope is to pass the bill this session and send it to the governor’s desk. It is sponsored in the Assembly by Assemblymember Brian Cunningham and co-sponsored by Republican Anil Beephan. This legislation is a crucial step in protecting victims of domestic violence and ensuring that tragedies like Melanie’s death are prevented in the future.

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