Putin signs law partially decriminalizing domestic violence

Russian president Vladimir Putin signed a controversial law decriminalizing some forms of domestic violence, state-run news agency Tass reported. The law decriminalizes a first offense of domestic abuse if the person did not suffer any physical injuries. The punishment is a fine of approximately $507, and an arrest up to 15 days or compulsory community service up to 120 hours. In repeated assaults, the fine is approximately $676, compulsory community service up to six months, or being arrested up to three months. More than 85% of legislators approved the law claiming "traditional family values."