Congresswoman Matsui Statement on the Introduction of the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, January 23, 2013

CONTACT: JONELLE TRIMMER
(202) 225-7163

Congresswoman Matsui Statement on the Introduction of the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013

Today, Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-06), vice-chair of the Congressional Caucus for Women's Issues, issued the following statement on the introduction of the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013 by Representatives Gwen Moore (WI-04) and John Conyers (MI-13). Rep. Matsui is an original cosponsor of the bill.

"This afternoon I joined my Democratic colleagues in introducing the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013. Far too many women continue to live in fear in their own homes, at work and walking down the street. It is essential for these women, and all past and future victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking, that we strengthen and reauthorize the Violence Against Women Act.

"Since its enactment in 1994, the Violence Against Women Act has been critical in reducing domestic violence incidents, with annual rates dropping by more than 50 percent. Unfortunately last Congress, instead of bringing up the bipartisan bill that passed the Senate, the House Republican leadership decided to bring up a bill that contained dangerous provisions that would have jeopardized the safety and lives of immigrant victims, Native American women, and LGBT women.

"I sincerely hope our Republican colleagues will join us this Congress in working to protect all women - regardless of race or sexual orientation - and pass this comprehensive reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act."

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