Laws meant to ensure privacy of victims and survivors of domestic violence, as well as the seizure of firearms of people under a protective order, were approved by Gov. Kathy Hochul on Tuesday. 

The five-law package was approved amid concerns over a rise in domestic and gender-based violence in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Hochul approved the laws during a signing ceremony in New York City earlier in the day on Tuesday. 

October also marks Domestic Violence Awareness Month. 

"My administration is committed to eradicating domestic violence and supporting survivors - a mission that has been a lifelong journey for generations of women in my family," Hochul said. "I am proud to sign these new laws that will enhance confidentiality, keep New Yorkers out of harm's way, and give them the flexibility they need to make the best decisions for themselves and their families."

One law is meant to strengthen requirements that guns are turned over by people who are subject to a protective order if a judge determines the person remains a danger. Another law will require criminal or family court judges to also ask a defendant about their firearm possession when an order of protection is issued.    

Hochul also approved privacy protections such as the sealing of voter registration information from the public for sexual assault survivors and victims. Utilities will be required to allow survivors of domestic violence to opt out of shared contracts without a penalty. And health insurance companies will give survivors of domestic violence the option of providing alternative contact information for access to claims and benefits. 

"Today's legislation will enhance safety for all survivors, because in domestic and sexual violence situations, safety matters above all else," said Kelli Ownes, the executive director of the Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence. "Whether we're talking about gun safety, privacy rights, or financial abuse, we want New Yorkers to know that they have options, resources, and protections."