Ten years ago, I authored a law preventing insurance companies from increasing rates, denying or canceling coverage because the person is a victim of domestic violence. I also successfully championed legislation preventing insurance companies from denying claims of domestic violence victims whose spouses cause property damage. Insurance companies should never revictimize domestic violence victims.

State Senator Patricia Vance (R-Cumberland/York) has extensively advocated for victims of domestic violence. Since 1996, she has tirelessly pursued legislation to protect victims of domestic violence from insurance discrimination, enhance the Protection From Abuse Act and establish an Address Confidentiality Program for individuals needing to hide their whereabouts from their perpetrators.

Senator Vance served on the Domestic Violence Services of Cumberland and Perry Counties´ Advisory Board, and recently joined the Board of Directors. She helped the agency obtain funding to purchase a van that is used for public education efforts and emergency shelter services. Senator Vance´s commitment and dedication to ending violence against women make her an ideal recipient of this special recognition.