'Dominick's Law' Abuse Bill Heads to Gov. Snyder

The Michigan House today gave final approval to legislation known as "Dominick's Law" that will strengthen penalties for child abuse in Michigan and create penalties for abuse in front of other people.

The legislation, sponsored by state Reps. Matt Lori and Joseph Graves, are in memory of , a 4-year old from Argentine Township who was in 2010, in the presence of his older brother.

Sal Alongi of Belleville, the grandfather of of Canton, he supported the bill after Hunter's father, Anthony Sewejkis, was and for up to 15 years in the near-fatal abuse case.

"Passing this legislation is a big victory for ensuring the safety of Michigan's children as it demonstrates that child abuse will not be tolerated in our state," said Graves, R-Argentine Township. "I hope that sending these bills to Gov. Snyder will also allow some closure for the Calhoun family as we honor the memory of little Dominick."

House Bills 5562 and 5563 establish penalties for committing child abuse in the presence of another child, which is not currently considered a component of the crime.

"Updating these laws gives the courts the tools to properly punish criminals who commit child abuse and sends the message that what happened to Dominick Calhoun will not be tolerated in Michigan," said Lori, R-Constantine. "We are determined to better protect our children from child abuse and I believe this has been accomplished under this legislation."

The legislation also strengthens penalties for first- and second-degree child abuse, creating additional penalties for additional offenses of child abuse.

HB 5562 and 5563 now await the Governor Rick Snyder's signature.

*Information provided by the Michigan House Republicans.