WASHINGTON – The U.S. Senate last night reaffirmed its support for efforts to end domestic violence in the United States. In a resolution authored by Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley, the Senate voiced its continued support for survivors of domestic violence, victim advocates, domestic violence victim service providers, and first responders. The resolution, which passed by unanimous consent, also acknowledges October as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
One in five women and one in seven men in the United States have experienced severe physical violence by an intimate partner, and on average, three women die each day as a result of domestic violence. While domestic violence affects men, women and children of every age, women are more likely to be injured during an assault. Domestic violence has been cited as a significant contributing factor in homelessness cases, and can lead to higher rates of intimate partner violence for children who are exposed to it. First responders face significant risks when responding to reports of domestic violence, and staff and volunteers at domestic violence shelters serve more than one million adults and children each year.
Congress first demonstrated its commitment to victims of domestic violence by passing the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act. Each year, Congress has renewed its support for survivors through programs in the Violence Against Women Act.
The resolution expresses support for raising greater awareness of domestic violence and the impact it has on families and communities across the country. It also pledges continued support for programs that assist survivors and hold perpetrators accountable.
The resolution was cosponsored by Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Patrick Leahy and senators Kelly Ayotte (R-N.H.) and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.)
Full text of the resolution is available HERE.
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