Monroe County approves new domestic violence statute

The Monroe County Commissioners have adopted a new workplace-based domestic abuse policy. The new policy states in part that “Monroe County is committed to providing a supportive workplace environment free of domestic violence.”

The commissioners adopted the policy because October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

“Domestic Violence doesn’t stay in the home,” Commissioner Iris Kiesling said in a press release. “It comes to the workplace and affects employee performance.”

The new policy seeks to pinpoint warning signs in the workplace that might identify victims of domestic violence at home. It was developed by Monroe County Human Resources Director Rhonda Foster and Lara Weaver, an executive assistant in the prosecutor’s office.

“Work performance, tardiness and absenteeism are common workplace issues that can arise when employees become victims of domestic violence,” Foster said. “We hope this policy can not only assist these employees to access helpful resources but also reduce costs and become a model for other organizations that want to include domestic violence as a workplace issue.”

The new policy recommends responses to employees who are victims of domestic violence and also provides potential disciplinary procedures to be followed if an employee is the perpetrator of domestic violence.

Additionally, it formally prohibits the use of government resources, work time or equipment in connection with an act of domestic violence.

The commissioners cited a 2005 study that indicated domestic violence costs United States businesses an estimated $728.8 million in productivity and approximately $7.9 million in paid work days each year.

“It is a good business practice for employers to be prepared and adopt policies that outline an appropriate response to domestic violence,” Weaver said. “Today, companies that fail to develop policies to create a safe workplace can face substantial liability. Employers who take action can not only avoid these costs but also make a positive difference in the lives of their employees and improve productivity in the workplace.”

The full policy can be read on the county’s website, co.monroe.in.us.

— Zach Ammerman