New Law in Sacramento Should be Naitonwide

In Sacramento, victims of domestic violence now have an option when trying to leave their abuser. When women (and men) live in rental units, they are more likely to be abused. They are also concerned about the consequences of leaving those rental units, even when their safety depends on it. They don't want to be held financially responsible for breaking a lease and ruining any credit history they might have. A new law now allows victims to leave their residence, provided they give a written notice to their landlord, copy of the police report or restraining order, and pay 30 days of rent after the notice was given. They will not be held responsible for anything else if those requirements are met. It seems like this would be true anywhere. Isn't this the obvious way to handle such a situation? Why punish someone who is already paying a huge price? Why wouldn't this be a law in any city or state? By asking for the copy of the police report or restraining order, you can safeguard against those who would take advantage of this law and try to get out of paying rent. Those are the people who don't need the protection this law provides. Leaving an unhealthy and violent situation isn't always easy for the victim. This law makes the decision a little less challenging.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/30632092/from/ET/