Record domestic violence, tribal leaders unite, and rising jail deaths
VNN Weekly Digest March 24 - March 30
Here’s a look at the week’s top stories:
Advocate stresses the need for domestic violence to be addressed
(OKLAHOMA) In February, Oklahoma’s Domestic Violence Fatality Review Board released statistics showing domestic violence homicides in the state are on the rise.
That report stated, “The 122 domestic violence-related homicide victims identified in 2023 is the highest number since the DVFRB started collecting data in 2002. The total marks five consecutive years where the DVFRB has identified more than 100 victims who were killed due to domestic violence in Oklahoma.”
Oklahoma Tribal leaders unite amid federal uncertainty
(OKLAHOMA) The United Indian Nations of Oklahoma held their quarterly meeting amidst the backdrop of uncertainty over federal programs tribal nations rely on after the new administration vowed to reduce the size of government.
During the daylong meeting on March 20, leaders of 31 tribal nations met to discuss budgeting priorities such as language programs, health care and money for legal fees as tribal leaders anticipate legal battles.
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Oklahoma lawmakers move to regulate jails amid rising deaths
(OKLAHOMA) With unanimous support, the Oklahoma Senate passed a bill Monday aiming to standardize how county jails operate in a state that has the second-highest rate of jail deaths in the nation.
Sponsored by state Sen. Darrell Weaver (R-Moore), SB 595 establishes the Oklahoma Jail Standards Act. It mandates annual inspections of city- and county-run detention facilities, rules for staff responsibilities, and protocols for new construction.
WEATHER ACROSS AMERICA
(NATIONAL) Severe weather and heavy rainfall spread from the Valleys to the East Coast, an ice storm continues across parts of the Midwest and New England, unsettled weather arrives over the West Coast, Critical Fire Weather conditions likely for much of the Southern High Plains, and much above average temperatures across the South and East.
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