Revised Code of Washington - RCW Title 26 Domestic Relations - Section 26.52.005 Findings -- Intent

§ 26.52.005. Findings -- Intent

The problem of women fleeing across state lines to escape their abusers is epidemic in the United States. In 1994, Congress enacted the violence against women act (VAWA) as Title IV of the violent crime control and law enforcement act (P.L. 103-322). The VAWA provides for improved prevention and prosecution of violent crimes against women and children. Section 2265 of the VAWA (Title IV, P.L. 103-322) provides for nation-wide enforcement of civil and criminal protection orders in state and tribal courts throughout the country.

The legislature finds that existing statutes may not provide an adequate mechanism for victims, police, prosecutors, and courts to enforce a foreign protection order in our state. It is the intent of the legislature that the barriers faced by persons entitled to protection under a foreign protection order will be removed and that violations of foreign protection orders be criminally prosecuted in this state.

[1999 c 184 § 2.]

Sections:  26.52.005  26.52.010  26.52.020  26.52.030  26.52.040  26.52.050  26.52.060  26.52.070  26.52.080  26.52.900  26.52.901  26.52.902  Next

Last modified: April 7, 2009