Some domestic abuse victims face a problem if they live with their attacker in a rental property, since they may have to wait for their lease to end to move out. A proposal from State Representative Scott Suder (R-Abbotsford) could soon change that though, by allowing victims to end a lease or rental agreement early, if they can show they're in danger of physical harm by remaining there.
The Abbotsford Republican says too many victims remain in dangerous living situations, simply because they can't afford the financial penalties that can come with ending a lease early. He says nobody should become a victim again because they can't afford to get away.
Evidence of violence will have to be shown to break a lease, such as a court injunction or proof of a filed criminal complaint.