January 26, 2012

TAKE ACTION: Your messages are urgently needed to push back against conservatives in the Senate who are attempting to drastically reduce funding under the Violence Against Women Act. Please call AND email your senators urging them to oppose amendments that would effectively shut down many smaller anti-violence programs and seriously impact services in larger programs.

NOW believes that requiring VAW programs to match federal funds by cash contributions is the first step toward eventually eliminating federal support. The Senate Judiciary Committee began consideration of the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2011 (S. 1925) today, so your calls and messages should be sent ASAP.

UPDATE (Feb. 7, 2012): Victory!! The Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2011 (S.1925) was passed by the Senate Judiciary Committee on Feb. 2 and the harmful match requirement was defeated. Next comes the full Senate vote. Right now, 38 senators are co-sponsors, but we need 60 to assure final passage. NOW activists are urged to call their senators ASAP to make sure that they are on board before the floor vote.