John Conyers: “This comprehensive law sends a clear message across the Nation: violence against women is a crime, and punishment for…”

“This comprehensive law sends a clear message across the Nation: violence against women is a crime, and punishment for this crime will be enforced. While the Violence Against Women Act has had a positive impact on communities across the Nation, there is still much work to be done. Violence still devastates the lives of too many women and children. Nearly one-third of women murdered each year are killed by their partners. Domestic violence accounts for over 20 percent of all violent crime against women in America. Over 300,000 women were raped and sexually assaulted in 1999 alone, and approximately 1 million women are stalked each year. The Violence Against Women Act must be reauthorized. We cannot turn our backs on women in need of protection and care. I urge passage of this bill.”