“Freedom doesn't have to be paid for.” Victims of domestic violence will no longer pay stamp duty for divorce or separation

The Chamber of Deputies has adopted a bill by which victims of domestic violence will no longer have to pay the court stamp duty when they want a divorce or separation. The law now goes to President Nicușor Dan for promulgation.

The project was initiated by Alina Gorghiu, PNL deputy.

“It is a law that removes a real barrier for women who want to break away from their abuser and start a new life in safety. Because freedom does not have to be paid for. Too often, victims of domestic violence remain captive not for lack of courage, but for lack of resources,” the deputy said in a press release.

She says taxes, lack of a fixed income and economic dependency “become obstacles to a vital decision”.

“Through this amendment, the state sends a clear message: a woman does not have to pay for the right to be free”, according to Gorghiu.

The law is part of “a wider package of measures that offer economic independence and real protection to victims”, claims Gorghiu, who details:

• Subsidy of 2,250 lei/month for employers who employ victims of domestic violence, with the preservation of confidentiality;

• The rent assistance that the UATs can grant to victims, in order to facilitate separation from the aggressor and reintegration into the community – in some cities, such as Cluj-Napoca, the support can reach up to 1,500 lei/month;

• Electronic vouchers, worth 2,000 lei, for mothers with newborns from vulnerable backgrounds, including mothers in situations of domestic violence – concrete support for a dignified and safe start to life.

“They are concrete steps that, together, offer a real chance for reconstruction. Because we know that a woman returns, on average, 7-8 times to the aggressor until she manages to leave permanently. We, as a state, must be present when she needs support, not after the tragedy. It's a law about dignity, access to justice and the right to safety,” Alina Gheorghiu said.