Governor Hassan's Statement on Signing Joshua's Law

Statement

Governor Maggie Hassan was joined today by Becky Ranes as she signed Joshua's Law into effect in her office. Named after Becky's son, Joshua Sayvon, who was murdered during a supervised visit with his father, the law establishes the crime of domestic violence in New Hampshire. A public ceremonial signing, which will include the many advocates who worked to pass the law, will be held later this summer. Governor Hassan issued the following statement on the new law:

I'm proud that New Hampshire has finally joined the majority of states in establishing a specific crime of domestic violence, which will help law enforcement and prosecutors better identify and stop repeat abusers, while providing victims with access to support and protections as early as possible.

"This critical public safety measure that I signed into law today was spurred in part by the tragic loss of 9-year-old Joshua Savyon. Joshua's mother Becky has shown remarkable courage in sharing her story and advocating for this law.

"Though there is nothing we can do to alleviate her pain, enacting this law in Joshua's memory is an important step forward for the safety of our communities. Becky's advocacy is an inspiration for us all, and I thank her on behalf of the countless families and communities that will be helped by this measure.

"I commend Senator Soucy for her leadership on this bill, as well as legislators from both parties for working together to pass Joshua's Law and make our families, our communities and our state safer."

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