House declares October Domestic Violence Awareness Month in PA

HARRISBURG — On Wednesday the state House of Representatives approved a resolution recognizing October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month Pike-Monroe Rep. John Siptroth sponsored the resolution. The House approved it by a 195-1 vote. The resolution, which Siptroth introduces annually, was blocked last week by state Rep. Darryl Metcalf, R-Butler. During his remarks on the House floor, Siptroth, D-Monroe/Pike, addressed last week’s controversy on the resolution. “It’s unfortunate this serious issue, which affects people from all walks of life in all corners of the world, became a public relations pawn,” he said. “I’m pleased my colleagues recognized this serious issue and took a step to break the wall of silence that surrounds domestic violence. We have to make people aware of the 24-hour hotline, counseling and court and emergency room assistance that is available in the state. We must let victims of domestic violence know the Crime Victims Compensation fund can help them with hospital costs.” According to the Pennsylvania Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 50 state residents lost their lives to domestic violence between Memorial Day and Labor Day this year. Of that number, 36 were victims. The other 14 were perpetrators who committed suicide or were killed by police. Last year, 31 people died in 31 days from domestic violence in Pennsylvania, according to the coalition.