CHARLOTTE, NC — A national version of a North Carolina law that toughens the penalties on child abusers is apparently being blocked in the US Senate. The law is named after Kilah Davenport, who was severely beaten by her stepfather. Kilah died in March, two weeks after a jury convicted Joshua Houser of child abuse.
Congressman Robert Pittenger sponsored the national bill. He says Patrick Leahy of Vermont is keeping it from advancing. “He needs to understand from the American people that’s bad policy, and that’s bad for children, and it’s heartless,” he said. “We will push it, but very sadly, politics interferes with good public policy.”
Pittenger has requested a meeting with Leahy. The US House passed the legislation in December. Kilah’s grandmother told WCCB Charlotte tonight that she’s upset the bill is being stalled.
