New York Law Shields Domestic Violence Victims From Fees

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — A new law in New York is designed to spare victims of domestic violence some penalties on their monthly bills.

The law signed by Gov. Andrew Cuomo on Wednesday allows people fleeing their batterers to terminate multi-year telephone or cable contracts at the home they're leaving without paying a penalty.

The law covers victims who have received an order of protection.

Cuomo says the survivors of domestic violence should not have to handle the added stress and red tape that comes with contract termination penalties.

The law takes effect immediately.