Tom Wolf: “We have now spent more than 15 hours debating and amending this bipartisan bill--and I appreciate Mr. Fattah's help in…”

“We have now spent more than 15 hours debating and amending this bipartisan bill--and I appreciate Mr. Fattah's help in it--that sufficiently and responsibly funds Federal programs that provide for our safety and economic well-being. This legislation ensures that our laws are enforced, that our businesses have the tools needed to succeed, and that uncertainty doesn't hinder progress. This bill already provides targeted increases for counterterrorism and cybersecurity, fights the scourge of drug abuse, and bolsters American scientific innovation and manufacturing. This is also a landmark bill for reducing violence against women. It strengthens services for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking by funding above the current level and above the President's request for these programs. In addition, it increases funding for victim assistance and programs that will address human trafficking. After amendments, the bill includes $41 million for the Community Response Teams to address the sexual assault kit backlog program. This is $6 million--17 percent--above the President's request. The bill also includes $125 million for core DNA programs, including the Debbie Smith program. This is $25 million above the President's request. Moreover, we do all this while staying within our allocation for this bill--$400 million less than last year.…”