As I mentioned in my previous post, Stop Negligence in New Jersey Group Homes, New Jersey State Assemblywoman Aura K. Dunn has drafted Bill A5204 and referred it to the Assembly Judiciary Committee. This bill amends the definition of domestic violence to account for group home residents attacked by other group home residents.
Why Is This Bill So Important?
The subject of this bill speaks to me on a personal level, as my son Aidan has been a victim of abuse within his group home on multiple occasions. Suffering abuse from another group home resident once is already too many times. And sadly, my son is most definitely not the only person with special needs being attacked by group home residents who bear no repercussions for their actions.
For individuals like Aidan, a group home truly serves as their home. Therefore, it is wholly justified for attacks within a group home setting to be considered domestic violence. I wholeheartedly wish I could be there to protect my son every minute of the day. But, unfortunately, that would be impossible.
I look forward to the day when I can rely on the powers that be within New Jersey to provide the necessary legislation and support that all group home residents deserve.