Smith Hails Signing of Violence Against Women Act Reauthorization

Smith Hails Signing of Violence Against Women Act Reauthorization
January 5, 2006

Legislation co-sponsored by Smith continues the fight against domestic violence

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) today praised the President's signing of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) Reauthorization, HR 3402. As a co-sponsor of the original VAWA of 2005 (the bill was later combined with other legislation prior to passage), Smith worked to ensure that funds were provided for programs that help the victims of domestic abuse, sexual assault and violence while at the same time focusing on the prevention and raising awareness of these crimes. Additionally, Smith was a key negotiator in the VAWA reauthorization bill in 2000 when it was attached to his Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act of 2000 (Public Law 106-386).

"The Violence Against Women Act Reauthorization signed by President Bush today will empower us to continue making progress in the fight against domestic violence," said Smith. "Since becoming law in 1994, VAWA has been effective tool that has protected women from an assortment of crimes including domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking."

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"This important legislation will allow us to build upon the successes of the original Violence Against Women Act in 1994 by ensuring that law enforcement personnel are properly trained and equipped and women have access to the available assistance," said Smith. "The Violence Against Women Act has no doubt saved lives and empowered women across our country."

http://www.house.gov/apps/list/press/nj04_smith/prVAWA.html