MCADSV works to improve laws, systems, and policies in order to address and prevent violence against women in Missouri.

MCADSV engages in this work on behalf of its more than 120 member domestic and sexual violence programs and on behalf of women and children in our state. Effective and informed policies and practices that promote women’s access to resources and equal participation in society have the potential to prevent violence against women and reduce the negative health effects that may result from the violence. During MCADSV’s 30-year history, all Missouri laws and public policies benefiting victims of domestic violence were developed and implemented through the advocacy and leadership of MCADSV and its member programs in communities throughout the state.

MCADSV has achieved monumental changes in Missouri public policy, including: making marital rape a crime; establishing Orders of Protection; providing legal protections for battered mothers and their children in law; protecting confidentiality for domestic and sexual violence advocates; and ensuring that the state pay for sexual assault forensic evidence examinations, instead of the victim. MCADSV also is responsible for designing the funding plan used to award state funding for domestic violence services—allowing for equal distribution of funds among eligible programs to stabilize and provide access to services throughout the state.

The 2013 Missouri Legislative Session started on January 9 and ended on May 17. Keep up to date with MCADSV's monthly Legislative Update by clicking on the link.
January 2013 MCADSV Legislative Update
February 2013 MCADSV Legislative Update
March 2013 MCADSV Legislative Update
April 2013 MCADSV Legislative Update
May MCADSV Legislative Update - End-of-Session 2013