Special Notice / Hearing: None__
Vote Required: Majority
To: Honorable Board of Supervisors
From: Supervisor David J. Canepa, District 5
Supervisor Carole Groom, District 2
Subject: Domestic Violence as a Human Rights Violation in San Mateo County
RECOMMENDATION:
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Adopt a resolution declaring domestic violence as a human rights violation and recognizing the importance of resources for domestic violence victims in public health emergencies.
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BACKGROUND:
In the County of San Mateo, 10,000 individuals are impacted by domestic violence each year, with 1 in 4 women and 1 in 7 men in San Mateo County experiencing domestic violence. During the COVID-19 pandemic, data and local domestic violence experts have revealed an increase in domestic violence cases as individuals are forced to shelter-in-place with abusive partners.
DISCUSSION:
The effects of domestic abuse are long-lasting on domestic violence victims. CORA is the only agency in San Mateo County solely dedicated to helping those affected by domestic violence.
The number of requests for restraining orders for domestic violence increased in March 2020. CORA also experienced an increase in online traffic congestion on their website and social media platforms, during the shelter-in-place orders.
The American Civil Liberties Union has declared domestic violence as a human rights violation. By declaring such violence as a human rights violation, San Mateo County will affirm its commitment to bettering and improving the safety and security of all individuals impacted by domestic violence in San Mateo County, during and beyond public health emergencies.
FISCAL IMPACT:
None.