The Waltham reported that the State Senate last month unanimously passed legislation enhancing protections for victims of domestic violence, strengthening penalties for strangulation and establishing new employment rights for victims.

“The bill takes steps forward for making sure domestic violence victims and their family members keep their jobs,” said Sen. Mike Barrett, who represents Waltham and serves as Senate chairman of the Committee on Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities. “People in these awful situations should have time to get medical treatment, counseling, housing and legal assistance.”

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