Lampitt to GOP: Stop Playing Games With Domestic Violence Protections

(VOORHEES)--In response to recent news reports, Assembly Women and Children Committee Chairwoman Pamela Lampitt (D-Camden/Burlington) today called on Republican Senators in Washington to stop stalling and immediately renew the federal Violence Against Women Act.  In light of the landmark 1994 legislation's vital importance to protecting women from domestic violence, Lampitt also called on Governor Christie to join with her in urging Washington Republicans to act quickly.

"Republicans in Washington need to understand one thing--the women of this country cannot afford to wait one minute longer for the renewal of the Violence Against Women Act," said Lampitt.  "It's time to stop playing politics with women's lives.  I hope Governor Christie will join with me in calling on Washington Republicans to stop stalling and pass this vital legislation immediately."

The landmark 1994 legislation provided enhanced resources to law enforcement to investigate and prosecute domestic violence, as well as providing a civil cause of action in instances where there was no prosecution. The National Organization for Women estimates that the rate of domestic violence against women declined 53 percent between 1993 and 2008.

"After the progress we've seen under this critically-needed law, now is not the time for delay--it's time for action," said Lampitt.  "Washington Republicans should stop catering to fringe conservative views and pass this bill without delay."

The Violence Against Women Act was successfully reauthorized in 2000 and 2005.