Public Policy

KCSDV is the leading voice in the Kansas Legislature on these issues, providing research, education, and information to public officials. KCSDV works closely with state agencies to improve public policy with an eye toward safety for victims and accountability of perpetrators.

KCSDV is committed to the prevention and elimination of sexual and domestic violence, stalking and dating violence and to ensuring that Kansas is a state where all of its citizens are safe in their communities, homes, and relationships. KCSDV and its network of programs embrace the following principles:

• All Kansans deserve to live in a home and a community where they can live without the fear of violence or intimidation.
• All Kansans share in the responsibility to our fellow citizens of ensuring that adequate resources and supports are provided to the most vulnerable among us.
• The infrastructure for safety includes the provision of funds allowing sexual and domestic violence programs to provide essential, life-saving and life-changing services as well as to engage in primary prevention work. This infrastructure includes other safety net services such as education, food and nutrition programs, cash assistance, affordable housing, transportation, and health and wellness program.
• Investing in sexual and domestic violence services is essential to building healthy, strong communities. When all members of our community are safe and prosperous, our community is stronger, more vibrant and productive.

Maintain adequate funding for essential, statewide services for sexual and domestic violence and stalking victims.

• Maintain core programs and funding for sexual and domestic violence victims across Kansas, including access to a 24-hour crisis line, shelter services, transitional housing, counseling, court advocacy, hospital advocacy, economic advocacy and other essential services to meet the needs of victims and their children.
• Provide necessary funding and support for engaging communities in prevention efforts; thereby, addressing the problems of sexual and domestic violence at the core.

Ensure the availability of multi-disciplinary services and safety net supports allowing victims to escape abuse and facilitate healing from violence.

• Maintain and strengthen safety net services including food and nutrition programs, cash assistance, job training opportunities, child-care assistance, tax incentives for the poor, affordable housing, health and wellness programs, among others.
• Support collaborative efforts with all systems accessed by victims.
• Avoid further reductions in health and human services that will impact sexual and domestic violence survivors and communities negatively.
• Play an active role in the Medicaid expansion coalition.