Domestic Violence Shelter CEO Praises NFL's New Policy

The Daily Meal Staff|

NORTH TEXAS (CBSDFW.COM/AP) — NFL players will be subject to a six-week suspension for a first domestic violence offense and banishment from the league for a second under a new policy outlined by Commissioner Roger Goodell.

"We can provide the support but having Roger Goodell's voice and putting it in writing is extraordinarily powerful," said Mary Lee Hafley, president and CEO of SafeHaven of Tarrant County.

In a letter and memo sent to all 32 teams owners Thursday, and obtained by The Associated Press, Goodell says he "didn't get it right" in giving Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice a two-game suspension for allegedly hitting the woman who is now his wife.

"I think the public voice spoke loud and clear," said Hafley.

Goodell told teams to distribute to all players the memo in which he writes: "Domestic violence and sexual assault are wrong. They are illegal. They are never acceptable and have no place in the NFL under any circumstances."

As part of the policy, the league will expand the scope of education on domestic violence and sexual assault for all players and non-players. This includes enhanced training for rookies and additional resources for all league personnel. All management will also undergo training to understand and identify risk factors.

The league will also develop outreach programs to educate the community.

Hafley advised the NFL could even go a step further by putting player's lost wages to use increasing advocacy on the local level.

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