1. United States
2. Ga.
3. Letter

I am writing to express my strong support for Bill 582, which seeks to allow defendants to present evidence of family violence, dating violence, or child abuse committed by the alleged victim in support of a justification defense. As a maternal health advocate, a birth worker, and a community leader deeply invested in the well-being of women and families, I believe this legislation is a necessary step toward justice, fairness, and protection for survivors of abuse. Survivors of domestic violence, dating violence, and child abuse often suffer in silence, and when they act in self-defense, they are too often criminalized without full consideration of their lived experiences. This bill ensures that critical context is brought into court proceedings, allowing judges and juries to understand the realities of abuse and coercion when determining guilt or sentencing. Additionally, expanding the defense of coercion to apply in all criminal cases acknowledges the devastating impact of prolonged abuse and the ways in which survivors may be forced into unlawful actions under threat. Providing for resentencing in certain murder convictions further offers an opportunity to correct past injustices where critical evidence of abuse may not have been considered. I also strongly support the bill’s provision for victim-centered programs and victim-offender dialogues, which promote healing and restorative justice. These programs create pathways for accountability, reconciliation, and community safety while reducing unnecessary incarceration of those acting in self-defense. By passing this legislation, Georgia has the opportunity to protect survivors, prevent wrongful convictions, and ensure a more just legal system that recognizes the complexities of abuse and self-defense. I urge you to support Bill 582 and help move this critical legislation forward. Thank you for your time and consideration. I welcome the opportunity to discuss this further and to support any efforts to advance this bill.