House Republicans Introduce VAWA Extension

Press Release

Today, Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY-21) and her colleagues Rep. John Faso (R-NY-19) and Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-08) introduced the Violence Against Women Extension Act -- a six-month clean extension of the expiring provisions of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). Congresswoman Stefanik and her colleagues recently wrote a letter to House Leadership urging action on this critical legislation before the September 30th deadline.

"I am pleased to be joined by my colleagues on this important effort to stand up to domestic violence and extend this crucial legislation for six months as we work to pass a long-term reauthorization," said Congresswoman Stefanik. "VAWA provides lifesaving services to communities across the country and it's critical that Congress act quickly given there are only six legislative days until it expires. This is an issue that affects every district in the country and I will continue to work in a bipartisan fashion on a long-term reauthorization for VAWA. I urge House Leadership to swiftly bring this bill up for vote."

"VAWA programs are instrumental in increasing awareness of domestic and sexual abuse, improving services and support available to victims, and enhancing law enforcement training and response to these crimes," said Congressman Faso. "For the safety of our communities, to continue protecting and supporting survivors, we must not allow VAWA to expire. This six-month extension of the legislation is critical, and I remain committed to working with my colleagues from both sides of the aisle to pass a long-term reauthorization."

"Congress must continue to aggressively combat domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking by swiftly reauthorizing the bipartisan Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)," said Congressman Fitzpatrick. "While there is still considerable work to be done, VAWA has drastically improved our nation's response to safeguarding women and children from abuse and anguish. A six-month extension provides Congress the opportunity to hold hearings and make improvements to VAWA without threatening critical existing programs. I urge House Leadership to bring up this extension for a vote immediately."

Click here for bill text. Original cosponsors of this bill include Reps. Don Bacon (R-NE-02), Susan Brooks (R-IN-05), Mike Coffman (R-CO-06), Rodney Davis (R-IL-13), John Faso (R-NY-19), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-08), and Steve Stivers (R-OH-15).

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