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Abstract: 

California’s progressive approach to domestic violence law reform is reflected in its expansion of the definition of abuse to keep pace with social science research and increased understanding of the dynamics of domestic violence. Legislators interested in the issue may get ideas from constituents, may work with advocacy groups and obtain feedback pro and con from a wide range of legal and mental health professionals who weigh in on a new law’s impact. At press time, legislators are tackling whether and how to proscribe coercive control. This article reviews the progress of the state’s expansion of protection for women, which began in the Senate in in early 2020 has now moved to the Assembly, where it has undergone substantial changes.

Keywords: Coercive Control

Affiliations:  1: Contributing Editor; 2: Associate Editor.