Blake Moore: “Year after year since coming to Congress, I have led efforts in the House to secure funding for Violence Against Women…”

“Year after year since coming to Congress, I have led efforts in the House to secure funding for Violence Against Women programs. I was honored to have led the efforts to renew the VAWA authorizing legislation in 2013. This is personal for me. And I want to make sure that for all of those who are going through the horror that domestic violence, they know that they have a place to go or services and supports to turn to get through those dark days. VAWA is essential legislation that provides the premier services for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. However, that authorizing language is only as good as we actually fund it. With domestic violence-related homicides on the rise, now more than ever, we need these funds and we need these funds right now. I have offered two amendments to this bill for programs that are in desperate need for additional funds. I applaud the committee for their efforts but like so many programs, the need continues to outpace available resources. The first amendment I submitted is for the Transitional Housing Program. This program provides transitional housing and short-term housing assistance for victims and their children or other dependents. With many victims stuck at home during the pandemic, access to safe housing can be the difference between life and death. I also offered an amendment to increase funding for the Sexual Assault Services Program.…”