The Samoa government's Family Safety bill has unanimously passed its second reading in Parliament.
The bill, the first of its kind, aims to protect family members, especially children and women, from domestic violence and sexual abuse.
The Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi told Parliament of the importance of the legislation, and reminded politicians of the increase in crimes committed against women and children.
The opposition deputy leader, A'eau Peniamina, says the proposed legislation is long overdue but he says the government should get credit for the effort to protect the most vulnerable.
The bill now goes to committee to seek public views.
