Domestic violence survivors rally against House Bill 1620 at Washington State committee hearing

The House Civil Rights & Judiciary Committee convened on January 29, 2025, to discuss House Bill 1620, which has sparked significant controversy among survivors of domestic violence and advocates. The meeting featured powerful testimonies from individuals who oppose the bill, citing concerns over its implications for victims and the potential for enabling abusers.

The session began with a survivor detailing the emotional and financial toll of navigating the legal system, having spent over $150,000 in legal fees. This individual expressed deep concern about the bill's provisions, which they believe would allow familial perpetrators to regain access to victims through treatment plans, potentially re-traumatizing survivors and their children.

Shira Cole, another survivor and advocate, urged the committee to vote against the bill, arguing that it shifts decision-making power back to abusers. She highlighted that the bill strengthens harmful narratives around parental alienation, which can undermine the credibility of protective parents in court. Cole emphasized that the bill does not provide real protections for survivors and instead risks punishing children for disclosing abuse.

Dana Tingey, also a survivor, echoed these sentiments, stating that family court can be more abusive than the original abuser. She criticized the influence of nonprofit organizations that may have financial interests in supporting the bill, urging lawmakers to listen to the voices of survivors instead.

The testimonies underscored a shared belief among the speakers that House Bill 1620 fails to adequately protect victims and could exacerbate existing vulnerabilities within the family court system. The committee heard from several other advocates who reiterated their opposition to the bill, calling for a more survivor-centered approach to legislation.

As the meeting progressed, the committee members were urged to consider the implications of the bill carefully, with survivors emphasizing the need for genuine reform that prioritizes the safety and well-being of victims and their children. The discussions highlighted a critical moment in the legislative process, as the committee weighs the voices of those directly affected by domestic violence against the proposed changes in the law.