[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 156 (Friday, October 31, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E2187-E2188]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              THE DOMESTIC VIOLENCE COURTS ASSISTANCE ACT

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. HILDA L. SOLIS

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 30, 2003

  Ms. SOLIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in an effort to help end the 
cycle of violence against women.
  I have introduced the ``Domestic Violence Courts Assistance Act'' 
because it is important to recognize the prevalence of domestic 
violence in our community and take the necessary steps to eradicate 
this problem. A study released earlier this year estimated that nearly 
half of the adult population in my home state of California reported 
knowing a victim of domestic violence. In the United States, nearly 2 
million women are victims of domestic violence. While there have been 
great strides to build upon and improve domestic violence legislation, 
the high rate of domestic violence victims is evidence for the 
continuing need for attention to this problem.
  This bill will help provide grant money from the Violence Against 
Women Act to be used to establish domestic violence courts. Because 
many local court systems are overwhelmed with the number of cases that 
come before them everyday, many domestic violence cases are not given 
the attention and time sensitivity that is crucial in raising the 
conviction rate of offenders. The bill also makes clear that funds can 
be used for translation and interpretation services, which is critical 
for domestic violence victims who are limited English proficient.

[[Page E2188]]

  We all need to contribute in this effort to end violence against 
women. Violence against women has far ranging affects. It affects the 
victim herself, the batterer, the children who are witness to the 
battering, and friends and family of the victim.
  It is our responsibility to give a voice to those who cannot speak 
out for themselves and provide strength and support to those who need 
it. I urge my colleagues to help make a difference in the struggle to 
combat domestic violence by supporting the ``Domestic Violence Courts 
Assistance Act''.

                          ____________________