Long Holds Domestic Violence Summit

     SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - U.S. Rep. Billy Long met Tuesday with groups concerned about the growing domestic violence issue in southwest Missouri for a roundtable discussion and update on the issue in the region.

     Long met with 14 groups from across the Ozarks ranging from the Springfield Police Department to the Joplin-based Lafayette House.  Planning for the meeting began in March after Long met with members of Harmony House, a domestic violence shelter in Springfield.  Long got an earful from the attendees as he also shared with the group current federal legislation to combat domestic violence and trafficking. The focus of the summit was to obtain feedback on how Long can be an advocate for the cause at the federal level while encouraging private sector involvement at the local level.

     "We had a great exchange of ideas during the meeting," Long said.  "I hope through meetings like this we can really get the word out to our local business community about how dire the situation is.  What was shared gives me a clearer image of how I can help push policies at the federal level to give law enforcement, medical and counseling groups the resources they need to address domestic violence."

     More than 7,600 domestic violence incidents were reported in the Seventh Congressional District in 2012, the last year which the Missouri State Highway Patrol has complied data.  Averaged, that is more than 20 reported cased per day, though many more go unreported.  More than 2 million injuries and 1,300 deaths per year can be attributed to domestic violence nationwide, and multiple studies show a link between abuse and depression or suicide.

     "Domestic violence is a ghost that lurks among far too many and is one that will live in victims' shadows forever.  I look forward to continuing to work with organizations across the Seventh District to end domestic violence and make sure they are well-equipped to support victims.  Today was just a start, as more meetings and seminars are already being planned.  I do not want this subject to be swept under the rug."