South Carolina has long had a domestic violence problem. Our Governor, Nikki Haley, is now attempting to tackle that problem by chairing a new domestic violence task force. Instead of focusing on penalties convicted abusers receive, Haley plans to address South Carolina’s culture of violence against women.

Haley isn’t the only one who thinks fixing this culture is the first step in curbing the state’s high rate of women being killed by men.

According to the Post and Courier, S.C. Chief Justice Jean Toal said, “When they get to court, things are already so broken,…Community people … need to be empowered to intervene, report these matters, get the kind of intervention in people’s lives before the crime occurs.”

By the end of 2015, the group will make recommendations in three areas: the criminal justice system, services for victims and offenders, and community awareness. According to the Post and Courier, “the force will consult church groups, police, prosecutors and advocates, along with a long list of state agencies, from the Education Department to the Board of Cosmetology.”

While Haley is sure to have supporters in this effort, the task force is also facing some doubt. Some feel the Governor is trying to consult with too many groups that may slow down the process. However, quarterly meetings that are open to the public will be held so that these concerns can be heard.