INDIANAPOLIS—State Senator Fady Qaddoura (D-Indianapolis) has introduced Senate Bill 470, a critical measure designed to reduce gun-related domestic violence and to protect victims of domestic abuse. This legislation seeks to prevent future tragedies and serves as a tribute to those who lost their lives due to their abuser’s access to firearms. 

The inspiration for SB 470 came from many grieving families who lost a loved one to domestic violence. More recently, the family of Jessica Stoebick brought this issue to Sen. Qaddoura’s attention seeking a meaningful change to protect Hoosiers from experiencing the same devastating loss that they experienced. On Dec. 18, 2023, Jessica was murdered by her estranged ex-husband after a lengthy history of domestic abuse incidents. 

“No family should have to endure the pain of losing a loved one because of weak laws that allow abusers to retain access to firearms,” said Sen. Qaddoura. “This bill is a necessary step to protect victims of domestic violence and ensure that our laws prioritize the safety of survivors and their families.” 

The proposed legislation seeks to strengthen protections for survivors of domestic violence by ensuring individuals charged with such offenses cannot legally possess firearms after their release and requires a more rigorous evaluation of violent offenders who have a history of violating invasion of privacy protective orders. Studies have shown that more than seven in 10 intimate partner homicides in the United States are committed with a gun, and 76 percent of intimate partner firearm homicide victims are women.  

“This policy is about saving lives,” added Sen. Qaddoura. “The General Assembly owes it to the victims and their families to take action.” 

If passed, SB 470 would bring Indiana’s laws in line with best practices for protecting survivors of domestic violence.