A group of New Jersey lawmakers and advocates is urging the legislature to update the state’s domestic violence laws to keep pace with technology.
 

One bill they’re supporting is known as Heather’s Law. It’s named for Heather Newman, an Old Bridge woman who was murdered by her estranged husband last December after a series of domestic violence incidents.

Her cousin, Ashlee Newman, says that bill would allow judges to order electronic monitoring of those convicted of domestic violence.

“Although we cannot look back and say that this law would have saved her life, I know that if our system was more diligent in regard to this issue Heather would still be here today watching her two little girls grow up.”

Senator Barbara Buono says another bill she’s sponsored would require cell phone providers to inform customers how to deactivate GPS location services so abusers could not track victims.

“Technology can be a powerful tool if it’s put in the hands of responsible law-abiding people, but it can also be a deadly weapon in the hands of those looking to harm, harass, or victimize those who trust them the most.”

Buono says one in four women will become the victim of domestic violence sometime during their lifetime, and they deserve help to stay out of harm’s way.