Cuomo signs new legislation protecting the privacy of domestic violence survivors

ALBANY, N.Y. (WHEC) — There are new rules for domestic violence victims seeking help in New York State.

Governor Andrew Cuomo has signed a law that now stops advocates from disclosing most information given to them by victims.

The new legislation is an update to the Civil Practice Law and Rules that apply to licensed domestic violence programs.

Those counselors are now only allowed to share a victim’s story if they intend to commit a crime, do someone harm, or if there is suspected child abuse.

Clients can waive this privilege, but advocates will need to provide written consent.