East SBV Times

Senator Suzette Martinez Valladares has introduced a new legislative proposal named "Kayleigh’s Law" aimed at enhancing protections for survivors of serious felonies and violent crimes. The proposed law would allow judges to issue lifetime protective orders, offering victims enduring security.

“Victims of violent crimes shouldn’t have to keep fighting to stay safe,” stated Senator Valladares. “Safety, dignity, and healing should never have an expiration date. By allowing judges to issue lifetime injunctions, we’re giving survivors the protection they deserve—without forcing them to keep reliving their trauma.”

Currently, victims can obtain temporary restraining orders or protective orders that expire after a set period. Once these expire, survivors must return to court repeatedly to request renewals, often encountering their perpetrators again. This process can be traumatic and burdensome for those who have already suffered significantly.

“This essential legislation offers protections for survivors, ensuring they are safeguarded from their abusers,” said Kayleigh Kozak, the namesake of the bill. “I am profoundly grateful to Senator Valladares for sponsoring this bill and advocating for survivors in California.”

The bill is inspired by Kayleigh Kozak's personal experience as a survivor and advocate for victims' rights. Over ten years after her case was concluded, she had to confront her abuser in court once more just to extend her protective order. This highlighted deficiencies in the current system and motivated her advocacy efforts.

Under SB 421, judges could impose lifetime injunctions during sentencing. These orders would remain unless specific conditions arise such as a victim's request for removal, an overturned conviction, or the victim's death.

Similar versions of Kayleigh’s Law exist in states like Arizona, Wisconsin, Colorado, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia. It is also being considered in Missouri and Wyoming during the 2025 legislative cycle.