Patty Murray: “I believe that every Senator in this Chamber should join in support of this important legislation. The Victims of Abuse…”

“I believe that every Senator in this Chamber should join in support of this important legislation. The Victims of Abuse Insurance Protection Act will prohibit discrimination by insurance companies against victims of domestic violence. This prohibition will apply to all lines of insurance including health, life, and homeowners. However, the first step for most victims is reporting the violence and removing themselves from the violent situation. But, if a victim of domestic violence knows that by reporting and seeking help they have now accepted the fact that they will face discriminatory practices in when they try to secure any form of insurance, fewer victims will come forward. This is a chilling consequence that we cannot allow. Make no mistake about it, this is a real threat. I have been approached by an insurance agent in Washington State who told me that she cannot sell life insurance to victims of domestic violence.”