The North Carolina Senate has unanimously passed a new child abuse law that could receive the governor’s signature before the end of the month, the Charlotte Observer reports.
Dubbed “Kilah’s Law,” the bill increases the sentences for several child abuse-related felonies. Currently the maximum sentence for the worst cases of child abuse is limited to 15 years. The new law would increase that penalty to 33 years.
The law is named after Kilah Davenport, a toddler whose father is awaiting trial for beating her last May. The resulting brain injuries will leave her with the mind of a three-year-old forever, according to the Observer article.
Another bill in Kilah’s name is under consideration in the U.S. House. It would also increase the federal penalties for people convicted of serious cases of child abuse, as well as strip federal money for child abuse prevention programs from states that do not raise the mandatory minimum sentences in their states.
The lawyers at Charles R. Ullman & Associates applaud North Carolina lawmakers for taking a stand to protect victims of domestic violence, who are often children.
To read Kilah’s Law, click here.