Political Quotes

“The Violence Against Women Act is the cornerstone of our Nation's response to domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking. VAWA's community response model helps abuse victims find safety and receive services, while holding thousands of perpetrators accountable for their actions. I would like to commend Congresswoman Karen Bass, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, and leadership for their commitment to making this legislation a priority of this Congress. Mr. Chair, the U.S. territories, including my district of the U.S. Virgin Islands, along with Puerto Rico, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and American Samoa, are eligible for the Violence Against Women Act programs under the Departments of Justice and Health and Human Services. For example, the Sexual Assault Services Formula Grant authorized under VAWA provides funding to support rape crisis centers and assist individuals who have been sexually assaulted. The Office on Violence Against Women awards no less than 1.5 percent of the total amount appropriated for the program to each State, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. The Virgin Islands, American Samoa, Guam, and the Northern Mariana Islands are awarded a base amount of 1 quarter of 1 percent of the total appropriation. In fiscal years 2017-2018, the smaller territories each received just $60,000 in funding under the Sexual Assault Services Formula Program. My amendment would double the minimum amount made available to these U.S.…”