Senate asks governor to designate Feb. 23 as Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Day

The New York State Senate on Feb. 24 adopted Resolution 16-33, which memorializes Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim Feb. 23 as Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Day in New York State.

Senator Webb urged support for the resolution and described domestic violence as a public health crisis that "knows no boundaries," saying it affects neighbors, coworkers and family members across socioeconomic lines. Webb cited statistics during her remarks: "Every minute, 24 people in The United States become victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking," and said the state has high demand for services, noting a National Network to End Domestic Violence survey reporting "more than 10,609 survivors requesting services on just 1 day in 2024" with more than 1,700 unfulfilled service requests on that same day because of insufficient resources.

Webb also highlighted teen dating violence figures and researchers' estimates of children exposed to intimate partner violence, and she urged continued work to expand safe housing, trauma-informed counseling, legal advocacy and court navigation supports for survivors.

The presiding officer put the question and the resolution was adopted by voice vote.

What happens next: The resolution requests the governor issue a proclamation; adoption of the resolution registers the Senate's support and highlights the need for service capacity for survivors.