Bill protects employees who are abuse victims

? Victims of domestic violence, sexual abuse and similar crimes couldn’t be fired or reprimanded by their employers for taking time off to deal with their situations under a bill sent to Gov. Kathleen Sebelius.

The House passed the compromise legislation 123-0 on Tuesday, a day after the Senate approved it 38-0. If signed, it would become law July 1.

Under the bill, a worker couldn’t be punished for going to court, getting medical attention or seeking help from a shelter or programs for victims.

Workers would have to give employers reasonable notice of taking time off when possible and, in cases where it’s not, provide proof of why they were absent, such as a police report or court order.

The bill also would allow victims to receive help from the secretary of state’s office to hide where they live.