As you may know, domestic violence crosses ethnic, racial, age, gender, national origin, sexual orientation, religious and socioeconomic lines. The U.S. Department of Justice estimates that one million women are abused every year. Fortunately, there is a confidential mail-forwarding program administered by the Secretary of State’s Office called Safe at Home that helps Californians escape abusive partners. This program could be your new beginning to a brighter future and anonymity from people looking to harm you.

The Safe at Home Program currently serves over 2,400 survivors of domestic violence and stalking. The program allows victims to suppress their DMV records, complete a confidential name change and register to vote secure in the knowledge that their home address will not be made available to the public.

Effective January 1, 2007, two pieces of legislation I authored as a state senator became law. SB 1062 allows sexual assault victims to participate in Safe at Home and SB 1743 removes the requirement that participants petitioning the court for a confidential name change have that request published in a local newspaper. As Secretary of State, I will continue my long-time role as an advocate for protecting the rights of victims of domestic abuse, stalking and sexual assault and to assist them in leading new lives free from abuse and fear.

I invite you to examine the program and its many features. Safe at Home may offer you added peace of mind and new options in life as you begin to rebuild your future.

Every Californian should feel and be Safe at Home.

Sincerely,

Debra Bowen
Secretary of State