State Sen. Steve Gallardo proposes stricter domestic violence penalties

...and the denizens of the Capitol wait with bated breath for the next lawsuit from State Sen. Scott "Fists of Fury" Bundgaard...

Sen. Steve Gallardo (D-Phoenix) has introduced SB1027.  If passed, it would strengthen the penalties for misdemeanor domestic violence.  Under existing law, people convicted of misdemeanor domestic violence can be sentenced to as little as counseling.

Gallardo's measure would mandate that those convicted on or pleading guilty or "no contest" to domestic violence charges face a minimum of mandatory treatment (that the offenders would pay for), supervised probation, two days in jail and a $50 fine.

Which doesn't sound like much, until you remember that it's stronger than current law by, oh, mandatory treatment, supervised probation, two days' jail time, and a $50 fine (at a minimum).

The money collected from the fines will go toward programs to assist victims of domestic violence.

“Right now in Arizona, someone who beats their dog can face harsher punishment than someone who beats their girlfriend. This legislation sends a strong message to those who engage in domestic violence. Arizonans won’t put up with that behavior, but we will help domestic violence victims escape abusive situations," said Gallardo.

For the record, Bundgaard pled "no contest" to the charges stemming from his February assault. 

Look for him to complain, maybe to the Senate Ethics Committee (you know, the people he is suing to stop them from looking into his actions), that he is personally attacked by this bill and that Gallardo should be disciplined for his lack of decorum (or some such BS.)