Pelosi Statement on Violence Against Women Act Being Signed into Law

Pelosi Statement on Violence Against Women Act Being Signed into Law

Thursday, January 5, 2006

Contact: Brendan Daly/Jennifer Crider, 202-226-7616

Washington, D.C. â€" House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today on the Violence Against Women Act, which President Bush will sign into law later this afternoon:

â€Å"The passage of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) was one of the few victories for women and families last year and I am pleased that it was signed into law today.

â€Å"Since it was first enacted in 1994, VAWA has been critical in protecting women from domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking. It has strengthened communities and saved lives across the country. This bipartisan extension of the Act includes much-needed provisions for early intervention, prevention and health care. It is a critical step and a national commitment to keep women and children safe from fear and abuse. We can and must do more to intervene and prevent violence before it starts and harms generations of families and communities.

â€Å"I commend my colleagues who were instrumental in the passage of this essential legislation, Congresswomen Hilda Solis, Co-Chair of the Congressional Caucus on Women’s Issues, Zoe Lofgren, and Lois Capps.”