DES MOINES - The Iowa Senate placed limits on access of public records Monday, giving new protections to victims of domestic violence.

The bill, which passed 48-0, would allow some crime victims to remove their names from county real-estate records and voter-registration rolls. This would be open to people who are protected by a restraining order or can show other evidence that their life is in danger.

"This bill would eliminate an abuser from sitting in their home and stalking his victim with his computer," said Sen. Frank Wood, D-Eldridge, one of the bill's sponsors.

The bill was written in response to rising concerns that the Internet is making it difficult for victims of domestic violence to escape their abusers.

Victims "don't want to be tracked," said Sen. Mark Zieman, R-Postville.

The bill now heads to the House.

Contact Dan Gearino at (515) 243-0138 and dan.gearino@lee.net.