State and Territory AGs Support Violence Against Women Act

Washington, D.C. — The National Association of Attorneys General (NAAG) is supporting the reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). Since 1995, VAWA has awarded over $6 billion in grants to government and non-profit programs that aim to address and reduce violence against women.

“As the chief legal officers of our respective states, reducing the rate and devastating effects of sexual violence, intimate partner violence, and stalking, and supporting survivors as they rebuild their lives has been a constant and consistent priority,” reads the NAAG letter signed by all 56 state and territory attorneys general and sent today to U.S. Senate and House leadership. “VAWA has substantially improved access to advocacy, health care, and legal services, but unfortunately, violence against women remains prevalent in all communities.”

Programs funded by VAWA grants hold accountable offenders of violent crimes while providing important resources, services and remedies to survivors. They also provide training and assistance that enable victims to rebuild their lives.

“Through our extensive effort to fight violence against women and support survivors, we have seen that coordinated responses are essential to help survivors through crisis and empower them to live safe and healthy lives,” the letter continues.

VAWA is set to expire this year. Reauthorization of federal legislation is vital to ensuring continued aid for victims. With bipartisan support, VAWA has been reauthorized and strengthened in 2000, 2005, and 2013.

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