East Hudson Valley News

Assemblyman Matt Slater held a press conference at Somers Town Hall to advocate for the passage of bill A.7026. The proposed legislation aims to allow domestic violence survivors the right to request emergency relocation to another unit owned by the same landlord or public housing authority. The bill intends to improve housing stability, prioritize the safety of survivors, and prevent retaliatory actions.

Slater's proposal was partly inspired by the tragedy that befell the Raimondi family in October 2024, when 15-year-old Michael Raimondi was killed by his mother's boyfriend. Michael's mother, Christina, and brother were also harmed in the attack. When Christina sought to move for her safety, despite her landlord's willingness, existing laws prevented her relocation without terminating the lease.

Slater, along with Town of Somers Supervisor Rob Scorrano, and Piaget Solpiaget, Executive Director of the Putnam/Northern Westchester Women’s Resource Center, emphasized the necessity of the bill. "What Christina and her family have endured is unimaginable," Slater declared. "No survivor should ever face such obstacles when trying to escape a dangerous situation."

Scorrano pointed out that for many survivors, the current system requires reentering a lengthy housing lottery process. "This bill removes barriers that prevent survivors from leaving dangerous situations," he explained, stressing the importance of allowing survivors to maintain proximity to jobs and support systems.

Piaget Solpiaget highlighted the inadequate support for survivors within the existing housing systems. "Today we change that with this legislation," she stated. "When survivors have a safe place to go, they are more likely to escape abuse, find employment, receive necessary counseling, and rebuild their lives."

Christina Raimondi, sharing her personal experience, expressed gratitude, saying, "This legislation is a wonderful opportunity for future victims because unfortunately, with domestic violence, there’s no end in sight."

Putnam County Sheriff Kevin McConville supported the initiative, asserting, "This bill serves to right a lot of wrongs. There’s an old saying: don’t victimize a victim twice. That’s what’s currently happening at this moment. This bill fixes that."

Assemblyman Slater and his supporters encourage public backing to pass the legislation, aiming to provide safer housing options for domestic violence survivors.