The Alberta government has now made it possible for victims of domestic violence to end tenancy agreements without any risk of financial penalty, thanks to a private member’s bill.

Calgary MLA Deborah Drever introduced the Residential Tenancies (Safer Spaces for Victims of Domestic Violence) Amendment Act back in November 2015 with the amendment coming into effect on Monday.

“Today, we stand up for Alberta women by making it easier for them to leave an unsafe home and maintain their independence. Safety, not financial expense, can now be the first consideration in leaving and breaking the cycle of domestic violence,” said Stephanie McLean, Minister of Service Alberta and Status of Women, in a release.

Drever says she saw a need for the changes in the bill and is glad that it was passed unanimously and that it is now law.

Domestic violence in Canada is one of the most under-reported crimes. According to recent data, one in three women experience it and one in 10 of those individuals actually take steps to report it.

The government estimates that between 60 and 100 certificates, which allow victims to get out of tenancy agreements without financial penalty due to domestic violence, will be issued this year.

Without Bill 204, victims were faced with paying a penalty on breaking a lease or paying the remaining amount on a lease before they could leave.

The government says it will help victims escape before it’s too late.

To acquire a certificate, the tenant must provide the Ministry of Human Services an emergency protection order, peace bond or a statement from a certified professional confirming they or their children are in danger.

In addition to the certificate, the victims will also be put in touch with other services and supports for survivors of domestic violence.

The Government of Alberta provides $95M annually to support Albertans affected by family violence including funding for community-led projects, women’s emergency shelters and second stage shelters.

4,990 women and 4,567 children were helped by the government in 2015.