Domestic violence task force created

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) - Connecticut lawmakers are creating a task force to study better ways to prevent domestic violence and help its victims.

State House Speaker Chris Donovan says legislators are frustrated by what appears to be an increase in domestic violence incidents as the economy has worsened.

He says the impression is based on accounts of adults and children seeking help at domestic violence shelters statewide.

The new task force holds its first meeting Nov. 30 at the state Capitol in Hartford.

It's being asked to review spending on domestic violence prevention programs and to identify trends.

The group will also advise the legislature on how to make it easier for victims to get and enforce restraining orders against their abusers.