Jackie Walorski: “According to the Department of Defense, in 2011, there were an estimated 19,000 victims of sexual violence in the…”

“According to the Department of Defense, in 2011, there were an estimated 19,000 victims of sexual violence in the military; however, only 2,700 servicemembers actually filed a sexual assault report. These numbers are daunting and completely inexcusable. Earlier this week, I was proud to introduce bipartisan legislation with Congresswoman Loretta Sanchez. This bill strengthens whistleblower protections for military sexual assault victims. These protections ensure victims of sexual crimes have the same rights as other military whistleblowers. Today, we have the opportunity to provide servicemen and -women with the peace of mind that they can report sexual violence without fear of retaliation. I encourage all my colleagues to support H.R. 1864 and help eradicate sexual violence from the Armed Forces. ____________________”