WASHINGTON, DC– Rep. Pete Olson (R-TX) today acted to protect women who suffer from domestic violence or sexual assault. Olson voted in favor of H.R. 1585, the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act (VAWA). While this bill provides important tools to assist victims, there were some provisions that cause concern that Olson hopes can be addressed in Senate negotiations.
“The safety of our wives, mothers, sisters and daughters is critically important, which is why I have worked to support programs designed to help protect those who face domestic violence, spousal abuse, stalking and other crimes that are all too common,” Rep. Pete Olson said. “I have taken a leadership role to combat abuse and human trafficking with my friend Rep. Jim Costa as co-chairs of the Victims’ Rights Caucus. While I voted to extend the Violence Against Women Act, I have concerns with some provisions involving Second Amendment rights and due process. We need the tools found in VAWA, but I will work to improve this bill as it goes to the Senate and through the entire legislative process. In the end, a long-term reauthorization of VAWA should not be controversial or political — this is about ensuring women across the country have the resources they need to stay safe and that the thugs who commit crimes are brought to justice.”
In the 116th Congress, Rep. Olson has taken the following actions to help prevent, or help victims recover from, domestic and other violence:
- Co-lead a bipartisan effort to secure critical funding for the Crime Victims Fund and Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) program, which supports not only victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking but also other crimes like child and elder abuse;
- Co-lead a bipartisan effort to secure federal matching funds for the Child Advocacy Center program which helps victims of child abuse navigate the legal system as their abuser nears prosecution;
- Voted (today) to extend the Violence Against Women Act.