Arizona Legislature Moves Forward With Landmark Bill to Safeguard Domestic Violence Survivors

By Daniel Stefanski |

Legislation aimed at enhancing protections for domestic violence survivors in Arizona has recently gained traction in the state Legislature. On Thursday, HB 2177, sponsored by State Representative Julie Willoughby, advanced after receiving approval from the Arizona House Appropriations Committee. The bill is poised for a vote by the full Arizona House in the near future.

HB 2177 proposes to allocate $400,000 from the state’s General Fund for Fiscal Year 2026 to the Address Confidentiality Program Fund. This funding is intended to improve access to crucial protections for victims of domestic violence, stalking, and sexual offenses. Willoughby emphasized the importance of the program, stating, “The last thing survivors should have to worry about is their abuser finding them.” She called for stronger support to ensure individuals can shield their home addresses and regain peace of mind.

The Address Confidentiality Program allows survivors to use substitute addresses for government records to protect their actual locations from being disclosed in public documents. Additionally, the program offers mail forwarding services, enabling participants to safely receive necessary correspondence without revealing their whereabouts.

The committee unanimously approved the bill, with all seventeen present members voting in favor. Support from advocacy groups was noted, with representatives from the Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence signing in to show their backing for this important measure.

As HB 2177 moves to the full Arizona House for further deliberation, it is anticipated to receive strong support before proceeding to the state Senate for additional review.

Daniel Stefanski is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.