Christopher Shays: “I rise it support of H.R. 3402, the Department of Justice Appropriations Authorization Act for Fiscal Years 2006 through…”

“I rise it support of H.R. 3402, the Department of Justice Appropriations Authorization Act for Fiscal Years 2006 through 2009, particularly the sections which re-authorizes portions of the Violence Against Women Act that are under the jurisdiction of the House Judiciary Committee. I am a long-time supporter of programs authorized by the Violence Against Women Act. I believe Congress must proactively work to combat crimes against women including domestic violence, rape and other sex crimes. In 1994, I voted for the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act, which incorporated VAWA. This legislation established a number of grant programs designed to aid law enforcement officers and prosecutors, encourage arrest policies, stem domestic violence and child abuse, and establish training programs for victim advocates and counselors. I am deeply concerned about the scourge of domestic violence and other crimes against women, and recognize the need for support services and tough prosecution guidelines. Each year, approximately 2 million women are physically or sexually assaulted or stalked by an intimate partner in the United States. Perpetrators of these reprehensible crimes must be punished, and victims must have the services available to help transition to a normal life. Passing H.R. 3402 will ensure the development and continuation of programs that work to prevent violence and assist survivors and their families regain their safety and self-sufficiency.…”