Herbig introduces bill to increase funding for sexual, domestic violence services in Maine

Sen. Erin Herbig, D-Belfast, speaks at a press conference for LD 1171, alongside sexual assault and domestic violence survivors, allies and advocates at the State House in Augusta on Wednesday, April 17.

AUGUSTA — A bill introduced by Sen. Erin Herbig, D-Belfast, would provide an increase in funding for sexual violence and domestic violence services in Maine for the first time in nearly two decades. LD 1171, “An Act To Prevent Sexual and Domestic Violence and To Support Survivors,” received a public hearing in the Legislature’s Health and Human Services Committee on Wednesday.

“If I’m being honest, we shouldn’t have to do this. It shouldn’t take a crowd of people, holding signs, showing up in force at the State House to make sure survivors get the help they need and deserve to be safe,” said Sen. Herbig. “We have heard many people over the years insist they support for victims of sexual assault and domestic violence, but funding for services that help these victims in our state has not increased in nearly 20 years.”

LD 1171 would provide $5 million for sexual assault and domestic violence prevention and victim services over the next two fiscal years, using money from the state’s general fund. State statistics show that one in five Mainers suffers sexual assault at some point in their life, and a domestic violence assault is reported to Maine law enforcement approximately once every two hours.

The bill has been signed by 126 cosponsors.

“We all fear that our area will experience one of the many homicides that happen in our state each year due to domestic violence,” said York County Sheriff William King. “It is crucial that law enforcement and advocates work together to identify high risk cases and implement strategies that help victims and their children stay safe from harm.”

The bill faces further action in the committee and votes before the Maine Senate and House.