Daines Statement on 20th Anniversary of the Violence Against Women Act

Press Release

Representative Steve Daines issued the following statement on today's 20th Anniversary of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA):

"Twenty years ago today, our country committed to protecting women from violence when Congress passed the Violence Against Women Act. Domestic violence decreased 64 percent between 1993 and 2010, thanks in part to this historic legislation. There are signs of progress, but we continue to have a serious problem with domestic violence in our country and on Indian Reservations. I voted to reauthorize the legislation last year so that vital resources are available to support and keep safe the survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse."

Daines broke with his party and House leadership last year when he voted in favor of reauthorizing VAWA and securing tribal jurisdiction over non-Indians for prosecutorial powers in cases of domestic violence and sexual assault.

Daines has also supported efforts to combat sexual assault in the military.

He voted for H.R. 2527 which would provide veterans with counseling and treatment for sexual trauma that occurred during inactive duty training. Currently, veterans only receive this support for trauma suffered during activity duty or training.

Daines also voted for legislation that strongly encourages the VA to maximize the availability of mental health services to veterans who were victims of sexual assault.

In addition, Daines has been leading an effort to fight human trafficking, a heinous crime that is causing growing concern in eastern Montana.

Along with Representative Kristi Noem of South Dakota, Daines helped introduce and pass the Human Trafficking, Prevention, Intervention and Recovery Act.

Daines was a cosponsor of the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act which passed the House in May.

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