DCCC Chairman Steve Israel released the following statement on the anniversary of the Violence Against Women Act:
“Today marks two decades since leaders in both parties, led by then-Senator Joe Biden, came together to pass the Violence Against Women Act. That landmark law recognizes domestic violence for the horrific crime that it is and gives women a vital lifeline to both prosecute abusers and access treatment.
“The outrageous revelations regarding Ray Rice and the NFL are a painful reminder that despite the progress we have made, far too many women continue to be the victims of violence and sexual abuse. To make matters worse, House Republicans have let these victims down time and again, delaying the reauthorization of VAWA for 500 days, making a last-ditch attempt to exclude some women from its protections and, just this spring, voting down additional funding to strengthen the law.
“This opposition is a reminder that our work is not done. Today we must reaffirm our commitment to stamping out the criminal abuse that has touched too many families. House Democrats remain committed to strengthening protections for women and supporting policies that lift up women and their families.”