U.S. Reps. Tom Cole (R-OK) and John Katko (R-NY) on Nov. 12 introduced a bipartisan bill to reauthorize and expand federal funding for family and domestic violence programs.
Reps. Cole and Katko cosponsored the Family Violence Prevention and Services Improvement Act, H.R. 5041, with bill sponsor U.S. Rep. Lucy McBath (D-GA) to amend and make improvements to the existing law.
“The Family Violence Prevention and Services Improvement Act rightfully provides funds to local, state, tribal governments and territories to further resources and empower survivors,” Rep. Cole said. “I am proud to join my colleagues in introducing this important legislation.”
If enacted, H.R. 5041 would reauthorize and expand funding for programs focused on protecting survivors and preventing family and domestic violence, including for emergency housing, counseling and assistance for those in financial distress, according to a bill summary provided by the lawmakers.
“As a former federal prosecutor, I believe we must provide protection and support for the millions of Americans who face domestic violence in our country each year,” Rep. Katko said. “By reauthorizing this important program, we will ensure local, state and tribal governments are able to continue protection and support services, allowing survivors and their children to properly recover from violence and abuse by a partner.”
The bill would increase the funding authorization level to $252 million and would increase access to funds for programs not currently funded; expand support and access for culturally specific programs; and strengthen the capacity of Indian tribes to exercise their sovereign authority to more fully respond to domestic violence in their communities and authorizes funding for tribal coalitions and the Alaska Native Women’s Resource Center, among other provisions, according to the bill summary.
“All too often, survivors of domestic violence are without the means to leave their situations, or they are not even aware of the first steps they can take,” said Rep. Cole. “It is critical that these individuals have the resources needed to find help in dangerous situations.”
H.R. 5041 is under consideration by the U.S. House Education and Labor Committee.