Crapo Hails Passage of VAWA

Washington, D.C. - Today, the U.S. House of Representatives voted 286-138 to pass the Senate's bipartisan Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act (VAWA), of which Idaho Senator Mike Crapo and Senator Patrick Leahy (D-VT) are sponsors. 

The legislation, which passed the Senate 78-22, now goes to the White House for signature.  Crapo took to the Senate Floor to laud passage of the bill:

"I am honored to have worked on this bill with Senator Leahy, and my colleagues here in the Senate," Crapo said.  "I commend advocates across the nation, specifically the leadership and members of the Idaho Coalition Against Sexual and Domestic Violence, who have worked tirelessly on this issue.  Stemming the rising tide of domestic violence in Idaho and the nation is critical, and I am glad to see there are areas where Congress can come together and support this important cause."

The Senate measure renews VAWA for another five years, and includes vital protections for all victims of domestic and sexual violence.  The bill will significantly strengthen the ability of the federal government, the states, law enforcement, and service providers to combat domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking.