Local Bronx leaders are pushing for a domestic violence amendment that will protect all households, especially those that do not fit the traditional family mold.

Local leaders gathered in front of the Bronx Supreme Court as part of Crime Victims? Rights Week to rally support for a universal domestic violence protection bill. The bill would be an amendment to the Family Protection and Domestic Violence Intervention Act, which was first passed in 1994. The act covered only victims of domestic violence who were related by blood, legally married or had a child in common with the alleged abuser.

Borough President Adolfo Carrion Jr. says all kinds of families should be protected, including gay and lesbian partnerships, and domestic partnerships. Officials say those who oppose an amendment do not understand that times have changed. They hope to get the bill passed as soon as possible.