The Pennsylvania Coalition Against Domestic Violence (PCADV) commends Governor Tom Wolf for signing his “Protection of Vulnerable Populations” Executive Order today.
The Order establishes an Office of Advocacy and Reform within the governor’s office to help ensure the health and safety of all Pennsylvanians. Additionally, a Council on Reform will be created to support efforts to protect vulnerable populations throughout Pennsylvania.
PCADV Chief Executive Officer Susan Higginbotham has been appointed to the Council on Reform, which will focus efforts on protecting vulnerable populations from three perspectives: Prevention and Diversion, Protection and Intervention, and Justice and Support.
“I am truly honored to be named as a member of the Council on Reform,” said Higginbotham. “The Council’s work will be vitally important in making sure that survivors of domestic violence and other vulnerable populations in Pennsylvania are afforded the healthy, supported, and peaceful lives we all deserve.”
Governor Wolf is also pursuing a number of reforms at the state level to strengthen systems and programs meant to protect vulnerable citizens, including extensive regulatory and legislative actions expected to be announced over the coming months.
More information about the Governor’s Executive Order can be found here.