Governor Signs Hart's Bill Expediting the Divorce Process for Victims and Survivors of Domestic Violence

SANTA BARBARA, CA - Governor Gavin Newsom has signed Assembly Bill 1875 (Hart) into law, providing judges with discretion to waive or shorten California's six-month divorce waiting period for victims and survivors of domestic violence. The period surrounding separation and divorce can be particularly dangerous for victims of domestic violence. The bill was the result of a brainstorm with Laura Piña, a local mother, educator, advocate, and survivor of domestic violence.

"At six months, California has one of the longest divorce waiting periods in the nation. Even Texas-which has a 60-day divorce waiting period-allows judges to expedite the proceedings when interpersonal violence is involved," Assemblymember Hart said. "If this bill can give even one victim or survivor light at the end of the tunnel to safety, it is worth it. I am grateful to the survivor advocates in our community for championing this safety measure, and to Governor Newsom for signing it into law."

"I have long been an advocate for survivors. In 2024, I personally survived firearm-involved domestic violence shortly after initiating the divorce process," said Laura Piña. "I am committed to doing everything in my power to help survivors find safety and peace. I thank Assemblymember Hart and his staff for amplifying my voice in the legislative process."

"Leaving an abusive relationship can be one of the most difficult and dangerous times for a survivor of domestic violence. Survivors should not face unnecessary legal barriers as they work to regain safety, stability, and control over their lives," said Santa Barbara County District Attorney John Savrnoch. "AB 1875 gives judges the discretion to recognize the realities of domestic violence and, when appropriate, allow a survivor to move forward without being required to wait six months to legally end a marriage. We appreciate Assemblymember Hart's willingness to listen to survivors, advocates, and those working on the front lines of domestic violence and to turn those conversations into meaningful change." Assistant District Attorney Jennifer Karapetian provided technical assistance as the bill was developed.

Hart, Savrnoch, and Piña announced the new law at a press conference today, along with Domestic Violence Solutions Executive Director Ken Oplinger, Moms Demand Action leaders Jenny Schatzle and Kirsten Baillie, and other community partners.

Assemblymember Hart received support from Senate President pro Tempore Monique Limón in passing this bill.

AB 1875 is one of nine bills that Assemblymember Hart passed out of the Legislature and sent to Governor Newsom's desk in 2026. Eight of these bills were signed into law.

Gregg Hart represents California's 37th Assembly District, which includes Santa Barbara, Goleta, Carpinteria, Montecito, Summerland, Buellton, Solvang, Lompoc, Guadalupe, Santa Maria, Orcutt, and Nipomo. He chairs the Assembly Budget Subcommittee No. 7 on Accountability and Oversight and the Select Committee on the Nonprofit Sector.

CONTACT: Ethan Bertrand | (973) 934-7022