New York Bill Aims to Expand Domestic Violence Protections

Proposed legislation would extend statute of limitations and require trauma-informed police training

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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A new bill in the New York State Senate, known as the Phoenix Act, seeks to give survivors of domestic violence more time to press charges and change how police handle family offense cases. The proposed legislation would extend the statute of limitations to 10 years for felonies and 5 years for misdemeanors, as well as require police to complete trauma-informed training and address racial disparities in their response to domestic violence incidents.

Why it matters

Domestic violence is a significant issue in New York, with the City of Rochester reporting domestic violence cases at double the statewide average. This proposed legislation aims to provide more support and resources for survivors, while also improving the police response to these sensitive situations.

The details

The Phoenix Act would extend the statute of limitations for domestic violence crimes, giving survivors more time to come forward and press charges. It would also mandate that police officers complete trauma-informed training to better understand and respond to the needs of domestic violence victims. Additionally, the bill seeks to address racial disparities in how police handle these cases.

  • The proposed Phoenix Act is currently being considered by the New York State Senate.

The players

New York State Senate

The legislative body that is considering the Phoenix Act, a bill that aims to expand protections for domestic violence survivors.

Rochester Police Department

The police department in Rochester, New York, which has reported domestic violence cases at double the statewide average. They have launched a program called STRIVE to better coordinate resources and support for survivors.

Willow Domestic Violence Center

A community partner organization working with the Rochester Police Department and other agencies on the STRIVE program to provide comprehensive support for domestic violence victims.

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What’s next

If passed, the Phoenix Act would go into effect, extending the statute of limitations for domestic violence crimes and requiring trauma-informed training for police officers in New York.

The takeaway

This proposed legislation aims to provide more support and resources for domestic violence survivors in New York, while also improving the police response to these sensitive situations. By addressing the statute of limitations and requiring trauma-informed training, the Phoenix Act seeks to better protect victims and hold perpetrators accountable.