Rep. Monica Robb Blasdel Highlights Domestic Violence Awareness Month at 'Take Back the Night Walk'

LISBON-State Representatives Monica Robb Blasdel (R-New Waterford) highlighted the important of Domestic Violence Awareness month while speaking at a community event in Lisbon this week.

On Thursday, the Christina House hosted its annual "Take Back the Night Walk" to honor victims, celebrate survivors, and share resources for prevention and support.

"I was truly honored to take part in this year's 'Take Back the Night Walk,'" said Rep. Monica Robb Blasdel. "Domestic Violence Awareness Month is about giving survivors a voice and reminding every community that safety and hope must always come first. Events like this bring people together to stand against abuse, support survivors, and reaffirm our commitment to ending domestic violence here in Columbiana County and across Ohio."

Ohio has made historic progress in supporting survivors of domestic violence. The recently passed state budget dedicates $20 million over the next two years-the largest investment in domestic-violence services in state history. It strengthens shelters, advocacy programs, and 24-hour hotlines statewide. while continuing support for rural and regional shelters, including those serving Columbiana and Carroll Counties. The budget also provides transportation aid for survivors, expands trauma-informed care with $90 million for mental health and crisis services, and funds programs for children exposed to violence and survivors of human trafficking.

"These investments, paired with new laws to protect survivors and hold repeat offenders accountable, reflect Ohio's strong commitment to safety, recovery, and justice for every community," said Rep. Robb Blasdel.

The following bills have been introduced by the Ohio House:

House Bill 346, or V.J.'s Law, improves reporting of child abuse;
House Bill 354, the Keeping Our Survivors Safe Act, blocks convicted abusers from possessing firearms;
House Bill 352 expands the definition of domestic violence to include dating relationships.

A new law effective March 2025 also mandates prison terms for repeat felony offenders.