Senate Passes Senator Cortese’s SB 554 to Protect Survivors of Harassment and Domestic Violence

In a major step for the safety of survivors of harassment and domestic and sexual violence, the State Senate today passed SB 554, the Survivor's Protection Act, by Senator Dave Cortese (D-San Jose). This landmark legislation ensures that survivors of abuse can seek restraining orders in California, even if the survivor moves to another location.  

Obtaining a restraining order can be challenging for individuals who have moved away from their abuser. Under SB 554, survivors can request a restraining order in any California court, regardless of whether they live in California. This change is crucial as it enables judges to better protect individuals and their families from further harm.

“SB 554 is a lifeline for people in dire need of safety and peace,” said Senator Cortese (D-San Jose). “Justice knows no borders – nor should the protection we offer to those escaping violence.”

SB 554 addresses a critical gap in law where courts often dismiss petitions for restraining orders due to residency requirements. This bill will place California among the 15 states with commonsense restraining order laws, offering survivors who have relocated for safety — or whose perpetrators reside in California — a chance to petition for the protection they urgently need.

The Survivor's Protection Act now heads to the Assembly. SB 554 follows the success of similar legislation like SB 1267 in Hawaii, championed by Restraining Orders Without Borders, sponsor of SB 554, and the federal Sexual Assault Survivors Bill of Rights authored by Rise.

Senator Dave Cortese represents Senate District 15, which encompasses San Jose and much of Santa Clara County in the heart of Silicon Valley. Visit Senator Cortese’s website: https://sd15.senate.ca.gov

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