Leahy wants to strengthen domestic violence act

(05/05/2010)

Legislation that helps victims of domestic and dating violence expires next year, but Sen. Patrick Leahy wants to reauthorize and strengthen it.

Leahy, D-Vermont, invited the Vermont Network Against Domestic and Sexual Violence to Washington, D.C. The group talked about the importance of the landmark Violence Against Women Act-- or VAWA-- which was created in 1994. Most importantly, the group says the act got people talking about violence against women.

"Even in rural communities we are seeing that change, seeing folks realize that you can't be a silent bystander. It's not an option. But that's still a challenge because they're so far isolated," said Auburn Watersong of the Vt. Network Against Domestic and Sexual Violence.

The group also discussed ways to improve the act. In particular, they'd like to see more financial support for survivors-- especially during these tough economic times. Sen. Leahy is pushing legislation to improve VAWA. It has passed the judiciary committee and will be considered by the full Senate.

Source: WCAX