Senator Burr Applauds the Passage of Kilah Davenport Child Protection Act of 2013

Press Release

U.S. Senator Richard Burr (R-NC) applauds the Senate's passage of the Kilah Davenport Child Protection Act of 2013. Senator Burr introduced the legislation, which mirrors H.R. 3627, in December of 2013 and wrote to the Senate Judiciary Chairman and Ranking Member urging its swift consideration. Having passed both the House of Representatives and the Senate, this legislation will now move to the President's desk to be signed into law.

"I am pleased that the Senate passed the Kilah Davenport Act tonight and I thank Representative Pittenger for his advocacy on behalf of the family and the abused," said Senator Burr. "The Kilah Davenport Child Protection Act of 2013 will help ensure the care and protection of our children and help address abuse in each of our states. I only regret Kilah did not survive to see her issue championed -- God bless her and her family."

Named after Kilah Davenport, a young girl born and raised in North Carolina who was the victim of severe abuse, this bill would require the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to issue a report detailing penalties for child abuse in each state, the District of Columbia, and U.S. territories. Additionally, this bill addresses child abuse in areas where the federal government has responsibility by clarifying that previous convictions of child abuse can lead to criminal penalties for the offense of domestic assault by a habitual offender. This legislation will play an important role in addressing crimes against children.

The Kilah Davenport Child Protection Act of 2013 is supported by the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) and National Children's Alliance.

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