Pearce Votes to Re-Authorized Violence Against Women Act

Press Release

Today, U.S. Congressman Steve Pearce voted in favor of S. 47, the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013.

"Domestic violence is a serious issue that must not be tolerated, and I am proud to support legislation that expands protection for domestic violence victims in communities all across New Mexico. According to the Department of Justice, 775,000 women reported violent crimes committed by intimate partners in 2010," said Pearce. "All Americans have the right to live without fear of assault within their own home. Today, House Republicans joined with Democrats to reauthorize a program which is vital to the protection of victims of domestic violence. I encourage the President to act quickly to support this vital legislation."

Under this bill, Native Americans will be better able to protect Tribal citizens who are victims of domestic violence in a way that empowers local Tribal authorities while remaining constitutionally sound. In addition to improving protections for victims, this bill provides necessary funding for domestic violence services, programs, and shelters. It also provides for improved services for victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking.

Rep. Pearce has long been an advocate of the Violence Against Women Act. He also voted for the reauthorization of the Act in the 109th and 112th Congresses.

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