Sean Patrick Maloney: “This bill authorizes over $1 billion over the next 4 years for humanitarian and reconstruction projects as well as…”

“This bill authorizes over $1 billion over the next 4 years for humanitarian and reconstruction projects as well as military and police assistance to help rebuild this nation. I am very pleased that the bill incorporates language from H.R. 3342, the Access for Afghan Women Act, a bill I authored along with my good friend and colleague the gentlewoman from Maryland (Mrs. Morella). As a result, H.R. 3994 recognizes and now supports Afghan women and children by placing an emphasis on meeting the educational, health and sustenance needs of women and children so that they can participate fully in Afghan society. It also states that U.S. assistance should increase the participation of women and girls at all levels in decision-making areas. Finally, this bill requires that resources be sent to the Afghan Ministry of Women's Affairs. Each of these provisions are extremely important because they recognize the importance of including women's participation in all areas of Afghan life. Unfortunately, the underlying bill does not provide adequately for the safety and security of women living in Afghanistan, particularly in the areas outside of Kabul.”