August 30, 2019

The Women’s Bar Association of the State of New York, (“WBASNY”) is committed to protecting and advancing the rights of women and children. WBASNY is particularly proud the State of New York is witnessing historic progress being made toward social justice with legislation that was recently signed into law by Governor Andrew Cuomo (A.5318/S.2356). This legislation allows victims of domestic violence to terminate certain contracts, without penalty, provided the victim has certain proof, if they are forced to flee from the perpetrator of their abuse.

When leaving a domestic abuser, victims are often forced to leave behind items of significant intrinsic and financial value. This creates a barrier in their ability to afford to move themselves and their children to safety. Providing an escape clause in multi-year contracts is entirely consistent with the State and telecommunication industry’s efforts in providing victims of domestic violence support needed to reclaim their lives. This legislation builds on the great strides made in the Governor’s 2019 Women’s Justice Agenda to combat domestic violence and empower victims to seek justice.

WBASNY recognizes the leadership of Governor Andrew Cuomo, the sponsors of this legislation, Senator Kevin Parker and Assembly Member Nily Rozic, and other members of the New York legislature who continue to champion the rights of survivors. It is due to their efforts that gender equality and social justice are now closer to being fully realized. The message is clear: the needs of domestic violence survivors will no longer be ignored.

The Women’s Bar Association of the State of New York (“WBASNY”) is dedicated to advocating for the protection of women’s and children’s rights and advancing the status of women in the legal profession and society. Our nearly 4,300 members include attorneys, judges, and law students working in all substantive areas of law at the local, state, federal, and international levels. With 20 chapters throughout New York State, WBASNY speaks as one voice to advocate for equal access to justice and gender equality. WBASNY is a non-governmental organization in association with the UN Department of Public Information and holds Special Consultative Status with the UN Economic and Social Council, thus allowing WBASNY to substantially participate in work to support and advocate for the rights of women and children worldwide.