Domestic violence centers; legislative findings; requirements.

(1) The Legislature recognizes that the perpetration of violence by persons against their intimate partners, spouses, ex-spouses, or those with whom they share a child in common poses a significant public health threat that has adverse physical, emotional, and financial impacts on families and communities in this state. The Legislature further finds that it is critical that victims of domestic violence and their dependents have access to safe emergency shelter, advocacy, and crisis intervention services to assist them with the resources necessary to be safe and live free of violence.

(2) To ensure statewide consistency in the provision of confidential, comprehensive, and effective services to victims of domestic violence and their families, the Department of Children and Families shall certify and monitor domestic violence centers. The department and certified domestic violence centers shall serve as partners and together provide a coordinated response to address victim safety, hold batterers accountable, and prevent future violence in this state.