[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 36 (Thursday, March 6, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E386]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               SUPPORT FOR THE VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN ACT

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. RUSH D. HOLT

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, March 5, 2003

  Mr. HOLT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of full funding of the 
Violence Against Women Act. This law fostered countless initiatives 
that have brought millions of dollars to shelters, increased resources 
for law enforcement, expanded the National Domestic Violence Hotline, 
and bolstered the prosecution of child abuse, sexual assault, and 
domestic violence cases.
  These programs and services are invaluable. U.S. Department of 
Justice statistics indicate that domestic violence has decreased by 49 
percent since VAWA went into effect. They also reaffirm that full 
funding for VAWA is well worth the investment. It is estimated that the 
$1.6 billion spent on VAWA programs during the first six years after 
its enactment saved government coffers $14.8 billion in medical, legal, 
workplace and other social costs, not to mention saving many lives.
  Unfortunately, state budget crises and decreases in federal funding 
are threatening these vital programs and services. President Bush's 
budget request for FY 2004 would cut funding for VAWA programs and 
services by $141.6 million in FY 2004 from the previously authorized 
level of $692.5 million.
  Our Nation must renew our commitment to ending all forms of domestic 
violence. I urge my colleagues to appropriate fall funding to fulfill 
the mission of the Violence Against Women Act.