Bipartisan Bill to Improve Access to Safe Housing Passes Senate

DENVER, CO – Bipartisan legislation to improve access to safe housing for survivors of domestic violence cleared the Senate today.

Sponsored by Assistant Majority Leader Faith Winter, D-Broomfield, and Senator Dafna Michaelson Jenet, D-Commerce City, HB24-1431 would create the Stable Housing for Survivors of Domestic and Sexual Violence Program. The program would coordinate with community-based organizations to provide short-term assistance payments to survivors of abuse and interpersonal violence so that they can secure safe housing.

“Survivors of domestic and sexual violence frequently face housing instability, further jeopardizing their safety,” Winter said. “This new program will offer financial assistance to survivors to connect them to safe housing options and help ensure their well-being. I’m proud to see HB1431 advance – one of several pieces of legislation we’re passing this year to address the urgent needs of our most vulnerable Coloradans, support survivors, and build safer communities for all.”

“Colorado is lucky to have wonderful community-based organizations working to connect domestic violence survivors with supportive services – but we must do more to support their great work,” Michaelson Jenet said. “I’m pleased that this year we’re able to greatly increase the amount of funding available for domestic violence survivors and survivors of other types of abuse to access safe housing. This is a critical way survivors can get back on their feet and start to rebuild their lives.”

A 2023 study found that survivors who received housing support reported a decrease in physical, psychological, and economic abuse for themselves and their children.

HB24-1431 now heads to the Governor’s desk for his signature. Track the bill’s progress HERE.