Domestic violence bill sent to governor

Victims of domestic violence could be compelled to testify against their abusive spouse under a bill passed Wednesday by the state Senate.

House Bill 711 would eliminate a state law that allows a married victim to claim "spousal privilege" in avoiding a subpoena to testify in a criminal case. The bill's sponsor, House Majority Whip Edward Lindsey, R-Atlanta, said a change is needed to prevent abusers from pressuring their spouses against cooperating with prosecutors.

Opponents, including the Georgia Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, have said victims have the right to make up their own mind and should not be compelled to testify.

HB 711 passed the House last month on a 162-1 vote. It would also protect confidential information shared between victims and advocates against domestic violence.

The Senate passed it on a 52-1 vote. It did not make any changes to the bill, sending it to the governor for his signature to become law.

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