New law toughens penalties for domestic abuse in Iowa

Gov. Terry Branstad has signed into law a measure toughening penalties for domestic abuse cases that involve choking but not killing someone.

The measure signed by Branstad on Wednesday will let judges sentence people convicted of choking a domestic partner to a year in prison. The current limit is 30 days in jail.

Iowa City Democratic Rep. Vicki Lensing was a main backer of the measure. She says it sends a signal that lawmakers are serious about toughening penalties for domestic abuse.

The bill defines choking as "knowingly impeding the normal breathing or circulation of blood of another by applying pressure to the throat or neck."

Ames Democratic Sen. Herman Quirmbach says such abuse is often a signal that more violence is looming.

The Legislature overwhelmingly approved the measure.