Legislation introduces greater protections for survivors of domestic abuse
Commissioner Eileen Higgins made a notable achievement during the meeting of the Board of County Commissioners, successfully passing an ordinance to revise Miami-Dade County’s Domestic Leave Policy on October 16, 2024. This important legislation aligns with Domestic Violence Awareness Month and is designed to bolster protections and aid for County employees experiencing domestic violence.
Findings from the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence reveal that approximately 25% of women and 10% of men will face sexual violence, physical violence, or stalking by a partner during their lifetime. Many survivors struggle with economic instability, which poses a substantial barrier to leaving abusive relationships. The recently enacted ordinance aims to address this concern by ensuring that County employees can prioritize their safety without compromising their financial stability when dealing with domestic violence.
Commissioner Higgins underscored the critical nature of these changes in fostering a supportive work environment. She highlighted that these amendments would enable survivors of domestic violence to seek necessary assistance without compromising their financial stability. Additionally, the legislation aims to cultivate a professional environment focused on understanding and support, allowing all employees to flourish in both individual and occupational realms. The Commissioner expressed that individuals should never have to face the difficult choice between earning wages and ensuring their safety.
Major Revisions to the Policy
The newly enacted Domestic Leave ordinance sought to make meaningful improvements to the existing Domestic Leave Policy. Previously, employees only had 30 unpaid leaves but had to exhaust their personal leave before they could access this benefit. The revised legislation introduces several important changes. Personnel will now have access to up to 25 days allotted for domestic leave each year, with five of those days designated as paid leave.
Dedicated support for employees affected by domestic violence
The updated Domestic Leave Policy also ensures that comprehensive training and educational resources will be provided for every new hire, helping them understand the Domestic Leave Policy and the resources available to them. In addition, periodic training sessions will be implemented to highlight the support and security measures offered by the Policy. The ordinance includes provisions for a designated representative who will be specifically trained to provide employee assistance, ensuring that those affected have a reliable source of support within the workplace.
Elizabeth Regalado, Executive Director of Miami-Dade County’s Domestic Violence Oversight Board, emphasized the significance of this legislation in the workplace. She noted that the legislation reflects the value placed on employees by the County and reinforces the importance of enhancing safety measures for those experiencing domestic violence. The new policy provides individuals with the dignity they need to heal and regain control of their lives, affirming that they are not alone in their struggles and that their employer is committed to providing help.
Through the implementation of these important changes, Commissioner Higgins has reiterated her dedication to advocating for workers' rights and ensuring the safety of employees. By fostering an environment that encourages victims to seek help without worrying about financial repercussions, this new policy marks a substantial advancement in support for individuals affected by domestic violence.
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