Victim advocates here at SPAN, and across the country, breathed a sigh of relief as the Supreme Court ruled on a historic gun restriction case, solidifying protections for survivors of domestic violence and their families. In an 8-1 decision, the federal law that bans domestic abusers from access to guns was upheld in United States v. Rahimi. Not only does this prohibit future firearm purchases by domestic abusers, but it also upholds the rejection of more than 77,000 weapon purchases over the last 25 years.
This Supreme Court decision highlights the significant danger firearms pose to our communities. At SPAN, we understand the critical risk access to firearms brings to situations of domestic violence. Research shows the presence of a firearm in a domestic violence situation increases the risk of homicide by 500%. The Lethality Assessment Protocol (LAP), utilized across the nation and by the DV Task Force in Boulder County, helps assess the danger level of survivors and identify those most at risk of being killed by an intimate partner. In Boulder County, immediate coordination between First Responders and SPAN Advocates goes into effect when weapons are used against victims of DV. Lives are at risk when guns are accessible, and we prioritize high-lethality cases to ensure the safety of survivors and their families.
We know the fight to strengthen gun laws isn’t over. United States v. Rahimi was a victory for limiting access to firearms and prioritizing safety for survivors of domestic violence. We are beyond grateful for victim advocates who showed up and stressed the importance of keeping survivors safe. This lifesaving work is making an impact in communities across the country. SPAN remains committed to support, advocacy, education, and community organizing to end violence of all kinds in our homes and communities.
