On the recordMay 8, 2012
My amendment transfers $5 million from the Department of Justice Legal Activities, Salaries and Expenses, General Legal Activities to the Office of Violence Against Women. The Office of Violence Against Women serves as an invaluable resource for battered and abused women in all of our communities. The office provides grants that have helped to enhance Federal, State, and local responses to sexual assault, domestic violence, stalking and dating violence, as well as providing domestic shelters and services to victims of domestic violence. Abused women in our communities frequently have nowhere and no one to turn to. The programs provided by the Violence Against Women Act and the Office of Violence Against Women are the only safe haven for many women. These programs must be funded at a level that ensures these vital services can continue. This amendment is deficit-neutral, while increasing funding for the Office of Violence Against Women. During this period of budgetary constraints, we must prioritize the programs we need the most. My amendment clearly states that the Office of Violence Against Women is a priority. I urge all of my colleagues' support on this amendment. I yield back the balance of my time. The Acting CHAIR. The question is on the amendment offered by the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Runyan). The amendment was agreed to. The Acting CHAIR. The Clerk will read.…
