Congressional Record, House, March 17, 2021 — Equal Rights Amendment Deadline and VAWA Reauthorization
Summary
A page of the Congressional Record, House, dated March 17, 2021, at page H1419. After a one-minute speech on Savannah's St. Patrick's Day parade, Mrs. Maloney of New York says the House will vote to reauthorize the Violence Against Women Act. Mr. Nadler then calls up H.J. Res. 17, a joint resolution removing the deadline for the ratification of the equal rights amendment, and the text of the resolution is printed. The debate that follows includes remarks by Mrs. Fischbach, Ms. Jacobs of California, Mr. Smith of New Jersey and Ms. Speier, and a speaker says the Constitution does not explicitly guarantee equal protection of the laws on the basis of sex.
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“Congressional Record, House, March 17, 2021 — Equal Rights Amendment Deadline and VAWA Reauthorization.”
Original at www.govinfo.gov. Archived at Pandemic Darlings, https://pandemicdarlings.com/source-documents/crec-crec-2021-03-17-crec-2021-03-17-pt1-pgh1419-3-faad61dd79/
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March 17, 2021 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1419
Irish community. Savannah has a his- REMOVING THE DEADLINE FOR imposed by Congress ran out in 1982. In
torically large Irish community that is THE RATIFICATION OF THE the 40 years since, we have made great
integral to the fabric of the city, and EQUAL RIGHTS AMENDMENT strides in this country to ensure equal-
the St. Patrick’s Day parade is the di- Mr. NADLER. Madam Speaker, pur- ity. Women have secured the right to
rect result of this impact. suant to House Resolution 233, I call up vote, protection against workplace dis-
Unfortunately, the parade and elec- the joint resolution (H.J. Res. 17) re- crimination, and through case law de-
tion of the grand marshal was canceled cided under the 14th Amendment,
moving the deadline for the ratifica-
this year due to the pandemic. How- many other critical protections denied
tion of the equal rights amendment,
ever, it is important that we continue them for too long on the basis of sex.
and ask for its immediate consider-
to celebrate and honor the heritage and Without the ERA, millions of women
ation.
culture of the Irish. I look forward to have still had to march in support of
The Clerk read the title of the joint
continuing this special tradition and their rights, their healthcare, their re-
resolution.
celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in Savan- productive freedom and abortion ac-
The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mrs.
nah with everyone once the pandemic cess, and their dignity as equal citi-
BEATTY). Pursuant to House Resolution
ends. zens. Through the Me Too movement,
233, the joint resolution is considered
f read. we have had long-overdue, and some-
VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN ACT The text of the joint resolution is as times painful, conversations about the
follows: violence and harassment that women
(Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of and others experience—whether in the
New York asked and was given permis- H.J. RES. 17
workplace, at homes, or in schools and
sion to address the House for 1 minute.) Resolved by the Senate and House of Rep-
resentatives of the United States of America in universities.
Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New
Congress assembled, That notwithstanding But still, to this day, the Constitu-
York. Madam Speaker, today, we will
any time limit contained in House Joint Res- tion does not explicitly recognize and
vote to reauthorize the Violence
olution 208, 92d Congress, as agreed to in the guarantee that no one can be denied
Against Women Act, one of the most
Senate on March 22, 1972, the article of equal protection of the laws on the
important bills in history to protect amendment proposed to the States in that basis of sex. The ERA would enshrine
women and girls. joint resolution shall be valid to all intents
This photograph is of then-Senator those principles and take the final,
and purposes as part of the United States critical step of ensuring that laws
Joe Biden, myself, and other women Constitution whenever ratified by the legis-
leaders when we introduced this impor- latures of three-fourths of the several States.
disadvantaging women and gender mi-
tant bill in 1994. It is still important. norities are subject to the most rig-
The SPEAKER pro tempore. The orous form of scrutiny.
We need to reauthorize it. There is no joint resolution shall be debatable for Last year, Virginia became the 38th
doubt he will sign it into law. one hour, equally divided and con-
We live in a world where 1 in 4 and last necessary State to ratify the
trolled by the chair and ranking minor- ERA, and, today, in passing H.J. Res.
women have experienced sexual vio- ity member of the Committee on the
lence. Reauthorizing VAWA is about 17, we will be one step closer to en-
Judiciary or their respective designees. shrining it into law. This resolution re-
creating a future where all those expe- The gentleman from New York (Mr.
riencing dating and gender-based vio- moves a previous deadline Congress set
NADLER) and the gentlewoman from in the amendment’s proposing clause
lence feel supported to seek help, and Minnesota (Mrs. FISCHBACH) each will
where survivors are given the tools for ratifying the ERA, and will, there-
control 30 minutes. fore, ensure that recent ratifications
they need to heal. It is about ensuring The Chair recognizes the gentleman
a better, safer future for the next gen- by Nevada, Illinois, and Virginia are
from New York. given full effect.
eration. I urge a ‘‘yes’’ vote by all of GENERAL LEAVE
my colleagues. We are on the brink of making his-
Mr. NADLER. Madam Speaker, I ask tory, and no deadline should stand in
f unanimous consent that all Members the way. The Constitution itself places
EQUAL RIGHTS AMENDMENT may have 5 legislative days in which to no deadlines on the process for ratify-
(Ms. JACOBS of California asked and revise and extend their remarks and in- ing amendments. Congress, just as
was given permission to address the sert extraneous material on H.J. Res. clearly, has the authority to extend or
House for 1 minute.) 17. remove any deadlines that it pre-
Ms. JACOBS of California. Madam The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there viously chose to set in the first place.
Speaker, I rise today in support of the objection to the request of the gen- The recent ruling by the United
equal rights amendment. tleman from New York? States District Court for the District
From the beginning, gender equality There was no objection. of Columbia refusing to recognize the
was left out of the Constitution. Gen- Mr. NADLER. Madam Speaker, I recent State ratifications makes it
erations of women and LGBTQ-plus yield myself 3 minutes. even more imperative that Congress
Americans lived and died without ever Madam Speaker, H.J. Res. 17 is long- act now in removing this deadline. We
having the equal rights and dignity overdue legislation to ensure that the must make it absolutely clear that
that they deserve under the law. equal rights amendment can finally be- Congress does not want language put in
We know that the ERA is necessary come the 28th Amendment to the the proposing clause of a resolution 40
by the words of its opponents, includ- United States Constitution. The House years ago to stand in the way of full
ing the late Supreme Court Justice passed identical legislation last Con- equality now.
Antonin Scalia, who argued that the gress on a bipartisan basis, and I hope Madam Speaker, I thank Representa-
Constitution does not prohibit dis- it will do so again today. tive SPEIER for introducing this resolu-
crimination based on sex. We can Madam Speaker, in 1923, Alice Paul tion, which takes that important step.
change that. first introduced an amendment to the This resolution will ensure, at long
Madam Speaker, 38 States have rati- Constitution to guarantee full equal last, that the equal rights amendment
fied the ERA. The only hurdle that re- protection for women. The text of the can take its rightful place as part of
mains is the arbitrary deadline set by amendment is simple and clear: our Nation’s Constitution.
Congress, a deadline that passed before ‘‘Equality of rights under the law shall Madam Speaker, I urge all Members
I was born, but a deadline that never not be denied or abridged by the United to support it, and I reserve the balance
stopped the pursuit of justice. With States or by any State on account of of my time.
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every vote we take in this Chamber, we sex.’’ Mrs. FISCHBACH. Madam Speaker, I
have the chance to correct past mis- That amendment passed with over- yield myself such time as I may con-
takes and repeal past wrongs. That is whelming bipartisan majorities in the sume.
what we will do again today. House and Senate in 1972. Madam Speaker, I thank the gen-
Madam Speaker, our march for equal Unfortunately, it fell just short of tleman from New York for yielding.
rights is not done. It will not stop, and being ratified by the requisite number H.J. Res. 17 is not a resolution to re-
it does not expire. of States before the arbitrary deadline vive the equal rights amendment; it is
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H1420 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 17, 2021
a messaging vehicle. That is why of two-thirds of both Houses of Con- what their prior salary was from what-
Democrats bypassed the Committee on gress, and putting it in the resolving ever job they came, so she receives
the Judiciary and brought this resolu- clause does not evade Article V’s proce- $17,000 less than her colleague. She too
tion directly to the floor, a common dural requirements in any way. filed an action under the Equal Pay
theme for this majority. There was no Because setting a deadline takes a Act, and the courts held that there was
process for this resolution, a resolution two-thirds vote of Congress, it would some reasonable expectation.
that Democrats claim is a priority. We be absurd to say that changing that Well, there is nothing reasonable
are here today for a headline so the deadline requires anything less. If a about that. And until we have the ERA
Democrats can say they supported the simple majority of Congress could alter in the Constitution that provides the
ERA when it was in the House. a proposed amendment after it has same level of scrutiny as race discrimi-
But the fact is, Madam Speaker, that been sent to the States, the two-thirds nation, this will continue to be a prob-
men and women in the United States requirement of Article V would be lem.
are already equal under law. The Fifth meaningless. Or ask Jessica Gonzales if she thinks
and Fourteenth Amendments to the A partisan majority cannot rewrite a it is redundant. Jessica’s estranged
Constitution require as much, guaran- proposed amendment at will after there husband kidnapped and murdered their
teeing equal protection for all under three young daughters after the police
has been an agreement in Congress.
the laws of this country. To me, the refused to enforce a restraining order.
However, that is just what H.J. Res. 17 If we had the ERA, these cases would
ERA is unnecessary, redundant, and di- and the Democrats propose to do. have had different outcomes. The ERA
visive. The only thing it will do is em- The ERA expired in 1979, and this will create stronger legal recourse
power the far-left special interest joint resolution is a legal fiction ad- against sex discrimination, it will em-
groups and lead to activist litigation. vanced for political purposes. power Congress to better enforce and
Just last year, the head of Planned Madam Speaker, I urge all Members enact laws protecting women, and it
Parenthood declared: ‘‘There is no to oppose this resolution. will confirm the rightful place of gen-
equal rights for women without access
b 1030 der equality in the Constitution where
to abortion, plain and simple.’’ it belongs.
Or according to NARAL Pro-Choice Mr. NADLER. Madam Speaker, the
I believe most of us recognize that
America: ‘‘With its ratification, the gentlewoman errs, the deadline for
this is the right thing to do. The ERA
ERA would reinforce the constitutional ratification is not part of the amend-
is about building an America that we
right to abortion.’’ ment, it is part of the resolution pro- want. It is about forming a more per-
Madam Speaker, we should take posing the amendment. And if Congress fect union, it is about equality, sur-
them at their word. can propose a deadline, it can revoke vival, dignity, and respect.
For years, groups like Planned Par- that proposal since it is not part of the Mrs. FISCHBACH. Madam Speaker, I
enthood and others have advocated for amendment at all. yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from
adoption of the ERA so they can use it Madam Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to New Jersey (Mr. SMITH).
to pursue their pro-abortion agendas. If the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. Madam
the ERA became law, it would allow SPEIER). Speaker, some lawmakers continue to
these organizations to advance the rad- Ms. SPEIER. Madam Speaker, this is ignore, trivialize, or deny the fact that
ical policies through the courts with- a glorious day for women in America. abortion activists plan to aggressively
out being in full view of the American With the passage of the ERA and the use the Federal ERA—as they have
people. These groups have hijacked the Violence Against Women Act, we are used State ERAs—in a litigation strat-
ERA and are seeking to use it as a tool making great strides forward. egy designed to overturn pro-life laws
to challenge States’ pro-life laws. This particular resolution does one and policies, including restrictions sup-
But the reality is that this resolution thing. We want in the Constitution, ported by huge majorities of Ameri-
is unconstitutional. Article V of the plain and simple. cans.
Constitution empowers Congress to Antonin Scalia, the great jurist, said As the Marist Poll found recently in
propose amendments to the Constitu- once: Does the Constitution require January: Seven in 10 Americans, in-
tion by a two-thirds vote of both the discrimination based on sex? The an- cluding nearly half who identify as pro-
House and the Senate. After Congress swer is no. choice, want significant restrictions on
proposes an amendment, the amend- But if the question is: Does the Con- abortions. While I fundamentally dis-
ment is sent to the States for ratifica- stitution prohibit discrimination based agree with abortion activists who
tion. Three-fourths of the States must on sex? refuse to recognize an unborn child’s
ratify the amendment in order for it to The answer is also no. inherent dignity, worth and value,
become effective. That should send a chilling feeling in many on both sides now agree that how
The equal rights amendment was pro- each of us that in the Constitution of the ERA is written will be used in
posed in 1972. The amendment set an the United States women are not pro- court to massively promote abortion.
explicit deadline. It gave the States 7 tected. NARAL Pro-Choice America said the
In fact, we are the only country with ERA would ‘‘reinforce the constitu-
years, until 1979, for ratification. Set-
a written Constitution that does not tional right to abortion’’ and ‘‘require
ting a deadline for ratification is part
prohibit discrimination based on sex. judges to strike down anti-abortion
of Congress’ authority to determine
Shame on us. laws.’’
the mode of ratification under Article The National Organization for
V. There can be no expiration date on
Women said: ‘‘An ERA—properly inter-
In 1920, the Supreme Court held in equality. This is a bipartisan bill. We preted—could negate the hundreds of
Dillon v. Gloss that there was no doubt are proud to bring it to the floor. laws that have been passed restricting
that Congress can set a date for ratify- My colleagues across the aisle may access to abortion. . . .’’
ing an amendment. The deadline to say we don’t need the ERA, women are Those laws include the Hyde amend-
ratify the ERA has long since passed, already equal under the law, that it is ment, waiting periods, parental in-
and the amendment fell short of the re- redundant. volvement statutes, women’s right-to-
quired number of States. When pro- Well, tell that to Christy Brzonkala, know laws, conscience rights, and late
posing a constitutional amendment, who was raped by two football players term abortion ban, like the Partial-
the deadline for ratification is just as at Virginia Tech. She sought justice Birth Abortion Ban Act.
important as the substance. under VAWA, but the Supreme Court By now, my colleagues know that the
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The District Court for D.C., less than struck down the civil suit provision, Supreme Court of New Mexico ruled
2 weeks ago, denied an effort by Vir- claiming Congress lacked the power to that the State was required—required
ginia, Nevada, and Illinois to force the pass it. to fund abortion, based solely on the
adoption of the ERA, despite the 1979 Or Tracy Rexroat, whose starting State ERA.
deadline. In denying the effort of those salary at the Arizona Department of In like manner, the Supreme Court of
States, the courts said that a deadline Education was $17,000 less than her col- Connecticut invalidated its State ban
for ratification still receives the assent league. They based the salaries on on abortion funding based on its ERA.
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March 17, 2021 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1421
Ensuring equal rights for women and Congress can change it, and Congress tive abortions are ‘‘contrary to a mod-
serious protections against violence should change it. ern understanding of the ERA.’’
and exploitation requires laws, poli- I am the product of the work of a The National Organization for
cies, and spending priorities to achieve woman, my mother, and her mother Women has said, ‘‘An ERA—properly
those noble and necessary goals, with- produced her. We should not forget interpreted—could negate the hundreds
out—I say again, without putting un- women and their commitment and in- of laws that have been passed restrict-
born baby girls and boys at risk of valuable contributions at our birth. ing access to abortion care and contra-
death. Every woman should have the same ception.’’
Mr. NADLER. Madam Speaker, I am rights as a man. They don’t get paid With this unconstitutional bill, my
glad the gentleman recognizes that the same, they are discriminated in the colleagues across the aisle are hiding
equality includes the right of each workplace, they are harassed, they are behind the rhetoric of equality for
woman and man to make their own de- abused. They should have equal rights. women to eliminate any and all protec-
cision about their reproductive choices. That has not occurred in America, and tions for unborn babies, half of which
There can be no equality of the sexes it won’t happen until we pass this bill. would be girls, then women, if given
when one class of people is denied the I favor the passage and I appreciate the chance to live.
ability to control their own bodies. the spirit in which it is offered. Madam Speaker, I urge my col-
Madam Speaker, I yield 1 minute to Mrs. FISCHBACH. Madam Speaker, I leagues to oppose this bill.
the distinguished gentlewoman from yield 4 minutes to the gentlewoman b 1045
Georgia (Mrs. MCBATH). from Arizona (Mrs. LESKO).
Mrs. MCBATH. Madam Speaker, I Mrs. LESKO. Madam Speaker, I rise Mr. NADLER. Madam Speaker, I
thank the gentleman for yielding. in opposition to this bill. This push to yield the balance of my time to the
Madam Speaker, I celebrate this remove the deadline for ratification of gentleman from Tennessee (Mr. COHEN)
Women’s History Month by reflecting the Equal Rights Amendment is an un- that he may control that time.
on the achievement of so many women The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen-
necessary and unconstitutional power-
who have blazed a trail for the genera- tleman from Tennessee will control the
grab.
tions that followed them; women who This bill is unconstitutional. Con- time.
didn’t listen when they were told that Mr. COHEN. Unlike Alexander Haig, I
gress set a deadline for the ERA; it was
they couldn’t, they shouldn’t, or that am only here temporarily.
1979. With only 35 of the 38 States need- Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to
they didn’t belong. ed for ratification at the time, Con-
American women have fought for the the gentlewoman from New York (Mrs.
gress extended the deadline to 1982, but CAROLYN B. MALONEY), who is from the
right to vote, the right to equal edu-
no other States joined in, ending the East Side and who, as chairperson,
cation, the right to reproductive
ratification process for the equal rights brought us the great hearing last year
healthcare, and the right to financially
amendment. on the ERA.
provide for our families and be com-
Even the late Supreme Court Justice Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New
pensated the same as men. And we will
Ruth Bader Ginsburg said that the York. Madam Speaker, there is no time
continue these fights until our Con-
deadline for the ERA ratification had limit on equality. The equal rights
stitution declares that women are
long passed. She said: ‘‘I would like to amendment passed the needed 38
equal in the eyes of the law.
It is time for full constitutional see a new beginning. I’d like it to start States, including the great State of
equality. The American people over- over. There’s too much controversy New York. Enough is enough. It is long
whelmingly support this bipartisan leg- about latecomers—Virginia, long after past time for women to be in the Con-
islation. I am proud to vote for it again the deadline passed. Plus, a number of stitution.
today in honor of the generations of States have withdrawn their ratifica- We may not always be able to con-
women that have made strides toward tion. So, if you count a latecomer on trol, nor should women’s rights be de-
equality. I know that we will soon the plus side, how can you disregard pendent upon who controls State gov-
achieve it. States that said, ‘‘We’ve changed our ernments, who is in the White House or
Mrs. FISCHBACH. Madam Speaker, I minds?’’’ If my colleagues on the other Congress, or who sits on the Supreme
yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman side of the aisle want to ratify the Court.
from Indiana (Mrs. SPARTZ). ERA, they have to start over. Our rights shouldn’t be determined
Mrs. SPARTZ. Madam Speaker, I Women also already have equal by these types of things. It should be in
think it is a good discussion to have, rights under the law. In decision after the document, the document they in-
but I would suggest to my colleagues decision, the United States Supreme terpret and that they are bound by.
from the other side, if they do believe Court has underscored that the 14th It is long past time to spell out
this issue is still valid and necessary, Amendment to the United States Con- equality in our Constitution with the
to actually restart this process from stitution gives women equal rights and ERA.
the beginning, because we are wasting prohibits discrimination on the basis of Unfortunately, we are seeing the ef-
our time right here. A 1972 amendment sex, rendering, I believe, the ERA un- fects of gender inequality acutely dur-
cannot be ratified, it doesn’t exist. It necessary. ing this pandemic. An estimated 1 mil-
has expired. It is unconstitutional. A Finally, if ratified, the ERA would be lion more women than men have lost
lot of things have changed. used to codify the right to abortion, their jobs, and a disproportionate num-
We can debate if it is necessary or undoing pro-life protections, and forc- ber of those suffering are Black women
not, but if we want to have a real de- ing taxpayers to fund abortions. and Latinas.
bate, we need to restart this from the The New Mexico Supreme Court We need to pass it. It is urgently
beginning and not waste time debating ruled that their State’s ERA provision needed. Let’s just imagine if the ERA
something that doesn’t exist. So I required the State to fund abortions. had been ratified in the 1970s, as it
would ask not to support this amend- Numerous pro-abortion groups have al- should have been.
ment, and it is unconstitutional. ready made the case for ratifying the Would we have needed today a dra-
Mr. NADLER. Madam Speaker, I ERA on the basis of expanding their matic Me Too, Time’s Up movement
yield 1 minute to the distinguished abortion agenda. Just listen to the with hundreds of thousands of women
gentleman from Tennessee (Mr. words of the organizations pushing this having to tell their often painful per-
COHEN). legislation themselves. sonal stories in order to get justice?
Mr. COHEN. Madam Speaker, I want The National Abortion and Reproduc- Or would the Violence Against
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to thank the chairman for his time, tive Rights Action League, NARAL, Women Act and other legislation ad-
and I want to thank Mrs. MALONEY and has claimed that, ‘‘With its ratifica- dressing sexual assault have been
Ms. SPEIER for their long work on this, tion, the ERA would reinforce the con- passed, if it had been passed much
and the many women before them who stitutional right to abortion.’’ sooner, without the risk of a Supreme
have worked hard on this effort. Planned Parenthood and the Wom- Court ruling limiting a woman’s right
Congress created the limitation on en’s Law Project has said that State to sue? Women could sue directly if
years on the passage of the ERA, and bans and government funding of elec- they were in the Constitution.
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H1422 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 17, 2021
We have the opportunity to make Guaranteeing abortion on demand is cacy of the equal rights amendment. I
equal rights under the law a reality for completely wrong. It is not a constitu- thank Chairman NADLER for enabling
our mothers, our daughters, our grand- tional right. As a matter of fact, the us to have this legislation on the floor
daughters, and ourselves. We must rec- person in the womb should have the today and for his leadership on this
ognize that there is no time limit on constitutional right. It is not a ‘‘my issue over time.
equality and vote to pass today’s reso- body, my choice’’ issue because the Madam Speaker, 100 years ago, in
lution now. person in the womb is not the same 1921, a solemn promise was made to the
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Would body as the woman. women of our country, one honoring
the gentlewoman please pull her mask Also, NARAL Pro-Choice America our most fundamental truth as a na-
up. claims: ‘‘With its ratification, the ERA tion, as the equal rights amendment
Mr. COHEN. Madam Speaker, I yield would reinforce the constitutional was first introduced. When it was first
the balance of my time to the gen- right to abortion.’’ introduced, it said: ‘‘Men and women
tleman from New York (Mr. NADLER), If anything, we should be guaran- shall have equal rights throughout the
who is the chairman of the committee, teeing a constitutional right to people United States and every place subject
that he may control that time. in the womb. They should have the to its jurisdiction.’’
The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- constitutional right to life, liberty, and Simple, clear, fair, and just. Yet, a
tleman will control the balance of the the pursuit of happiness. century later, that promise remains
time. Let’s carry on. VAWA, Violence unfulfilled. The equal rights amend-
Mrs. FISCHBACH. Madam Speaker, I Against Women Act. Democrats have ment still has not been enshrined in
reserve the balance of my time. hijacked a program designed to help the Constitution, and American women
Mr. NADLER. Madam Speaker, I marginalized women and have turned it still face inequality under the law and,
yield 1 minute to the distinguished into a political weapon that erases gen- therefore, in their lives.
gentlewoman from California (Ms. der and destroys all religious freedom. In recent years, American women
CHU). On the wall right here, it says: In have renewed the legal fight for the
Ms. CHU. Madam Speaker, discrimi- God We Trust. God states that He cre- equal rights amendment. Women of all
nation against women is a part of ated male and female, not a plethora of backgrounds—students, mothers, sen-
America’s history, but it should not be genders that anyone can choose from. iors, communities of color, indigenous
our future. That is why we need the They want to let men calling them- women, et cetera—have taken up the
equal rights amendment. selves women sleep with women in do- mantle of the suffragists before them,
It was not an accident that women mestic abuse shelters. The Democrats standing on suffragists’ shoulders as
were left out of the Constitution. The will not be satisfied until every bat- they marched, mobilized, protested,
Founders very much believed us to be tered woman is endangered so long as and picketed for their rights. Because
unequal and, as such, we could not own their sexual orientation and gender of their courage and commitment, 38
property, vote, hold certain jobs, or identity ideology advances. States have now ratified the equal
even serve on a jury. That is not science. Science says that rights amendment.
The impacts of that discrimination there are only two genders, male and But one final barrier remains: remov-
are still felt today. Women are paid female, according to the chromosomes. ing the artificial, arbitrary time limit
less than men and still face discrimina- Make no mistake about it, Demo- for ratification. As the distinguished
tion for being pregnant. crats want to destroy our country. chairman pointed out, that deadline
The Founders were wrong, and this is They want to close every church and timetable is not in the Constitution.
our chance to fix it by doing what they nonprofit that doesn’t capitulate to Until we remove that arbitrary time
refused to do: assert in the Constitu- their oppressive agenda. Democrats limit, the ERA cannot become part of
tion that women, too, have rights. want to put domestic violence abusers our Constitution.
The ERA will not end discrimination, in the same room as their victims. Last year, the House passed legisla-
but it will empower us to fight it in Democrats want to dissolve all sex- tion to remove this arbitrary time
court. Already, 38 States have ratified based protection for women and girls limit, but unfortunately, the Senate
this amendment, which satisfies the re- through the relentless onslaught of failed to do so. So, today, the House
quirements in the Constitution. The gender identity. will, once again, pass this legislation
vast majority of Americans support it. Mr. NADLER. Madam Speaker, every and send it to the Senate for a vote. We
Congress set a deadline for ratifica- amendment since the 22nd, except for are proud to be doing it in Women’s
tion, which means we can repeal it. It the 27th, has had a deadline for ratifi- History Month.
is time to affirm that there is no expi- cation inserted in the resolution. But if We salute again Congresswoman
ration date on equality. you look at the Constitution, Madam JACKIE SPEIER, our champion on the
Mrs. FISCHBACH. Madam Speaker, I Speaker, you won’t find the deadline. legislation on the floor today, and Con-
yield 3 minutes to the gentlewoman That is because the deadline is part of gresswoman CAROLYN MALONEY, who
from Georgia (Mrs. GREENE). the congressional resolution proposing has been our lead sponsor of the ERA
Mrs. GREENE of Georgia. Madam the amendment, not part of the amend- for 25 years now.
Speaker, the language of the equal ment itself. Madam Speaker, I thank Members
rights amendment is simple, but don’t What Congress can propose, Congress from both sides of the aisle, including
be deceived by its simple language. can alter, which is all we are proposing cosponsor Representative TOM REED
The reviving of the deadline and rati- to do today. from New York, for their bipartisan
fying of this amendment would destroy Madam Speaker, I yield 1 minute to support in the Congress, which reflects
all distinctions between men and the distinguished gentlewoman from the overwhelming bipartisan support in
women, enshrine abortion, and em- California (Ms. PELOSI). the country. A full 94 percent of the
power the woke feminist mob. Ms. PELOSI. Madam Speaker, I public supports the equal rights
The equal rights amendment is dead thank the gentleman for yielding. It is amendment, including 99 percent, near-
and should remain dead. The States wonderful to see Members of Congress ly unanimous support, among
and Congress missed the deadline to wearing white today to observe the millennials and Generation Z.
have the amendment passed in 1979. fact that we are making history by Let us not forget that, in 1972, the
The Trump Department of Justice passing legislation about equality in equal rights amendment was passed
issued a legal opinion in January that our country. with bipartisan supermajorities in both
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the deadline for the ERA has already I thank Congresswoman JACKIE Chambers of Congress, and it enjoyed
passed, by any legal measure. SPEIER for her relentless championing the strong support of President Nixon,
The ERA would be a new constitu- of this equal rights amendment in who wrote in 1968 that ‘‘the task of
tional right guaranteeing abortion on terms of the date that the distin- achieving constitutional equality be-
demand. Have we not murdered enough guished chair of the Judiciary Com- tween the sexes is still not completed’’
people in the womb in this country, mittee referenced. I also thank CARO- and pointed out that all Republican
over 62 million? LYN MALONEY for her long-term advo- National Conventions since 1940 have
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March 17, 2021 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1423
supported the longtime movement for Mrs. HARTZLER. Madam Speaker, I ratify the ERA ‘‘expired long ago.’’
equality. rise today to celebrate the achieve- And the recent ratifications of the
There is no reason why today, after ments women have made and reaffirm amendment arrived ‘‘too late to
80 years of Republican support, the that we are already equal under cur- count.’’
ERA should not have full bipartisan rent law. Pretending we can remove the dead-
support in the Congress. The resolution Women represent 51 percent of the line for passage is both futile and de-
on the floor today will pave the way to population, comprise over half of col- ceptive. The ERA is a threat to the his-
passage of the equal rights amendment, lege students, make up the majority of torical strides women have made. It
which is one of the most important medical and law school students, and will eradicate State and Federal pro-
steps that we can take to affirm and run 12.3 million women-owned busi- life laws and policies, and the process
ensure women’s equality in America. nesses while generating $1.8 trillion is blatantly unconstitutional.
The text of the equal rights amend- each year. Madam Speaker, I urge my col-
ment states: ‘‘Equality of rights under Little girls can be whatever they leagues to vote ‘‘no’’ on this resolution
the law shall not be denied or abridged want to be, whether that is an astro- and to, instead, uphold the Constitu-
by the United States or by any State naut, a doctor, a full-time mom work- tion, promote life, and protect women’s
on account of sex.’’ ing at home, or a Member of Congress. rights.
‘‘On account of sex’’ recalls to mind The ERA would not add to the rights Mrs. MCBATH. Madam Speaker, I
the beautiful documentary about Ruth already guaranteed by the 14th Amend- yield 1 minute to the gentleman from
Bader Ginsburg. ment’s Equal Protection Clause, but it
Passing the equal rights amendment Maryland (Mr. HOYER), our esteemed
could jeopardize them. leader of the House.
will create essential avenues for legal How? Two ways.
recourse for people who face discrimi- Mr. HOYER. Madam Speaker, I
First, by making it discriminatory to
nation under the laws on the basis of thank the gentlewoman for yielding.
offer benefits to women not offered to
sex. It will ensure that the Supreme Madam Speaker, as we celebrate
men; women’s scholarships, women’s
Court applies the same standard of re- Women’s History Month, we do so with
colleges, job protection for pregnant
view for sex discrimination cases as it an awareness that so much work in the
women, and safe spaces may all be on
applies to cases of discrimination based fight for equality remains. Much has
the chopping block.
on race and national origin. It will help When the equal rights amendment been accomplished, but much remains
Congress pass laws for better legal pro- was first proposed a century ago, many to be done. This is one of those.
tections against injustice, including women’s rights advocates recognized That is what the House is focusing on
those related to sexual assault, domes- the negative ramifications it would this week, women’s equality, women’s
tic violence, and paycheck unfairness. bring. In fact, future First Lady Elea- safety and justice, and women’s oppor-
It will confirm the rightful place of nor Roosevelt expressed concerns that tunity. I am proud that we are taking
gender equality in all aspects of life. legislation protecting women in the action to reauthorize the Violence
There are some who say that the workplace could be eliminated should Against Women Act within the first 3
equal rights amendment is not needed. the ERA become part of the U.S. Con- months of the new Congress.
To them, I quote the late Justice stitution. I was a cosponsor—and proud of it—of
Antonin Scalia, who said: ‘‘Certainly Secondly, because the 1972 definition the original 1994 Violence Against
the Constitution does not require dis- of sex as male and female is no longer Women Act. We passed the original
crimination on the basis of sex. The accepted by many today and, instead, VAWA on a bipartisan basis and reau-
only issue is whether it prohibits it. It will require new protections for sexual thorized it with bipartisan support in
does not.’’ orientation and gender identity. This is 2000 and again in 2005. Those were over-
These are not just words. This is the a path that has already proven to be a whelming votes of 371–1 and 415–4.
daily reality for America’s women who threat to women’s privacy, safety, and Now we are talking about the equal
face inequality and injustice in so equality. Don’t take it from me. Talk rights amendment, I understand.
many arenas of life, from a massive to the nine women in California who In 2013, we did it again on VAWA, 87
wage gap, to pregnancy discrimination, were sexually harassed in a women’s Republicans joining all 199 Democrats
to sexual harassment in the workplace, shelter by a biological male identifying in the House vote. Every time we reau-
to economic disparities that have wors- as a woman. thorized the law, we made it stronger,
ened during coronavirus. The equal rights amendment would ensuring protections for more women
b 1100 not only codify inequality for women, who were victimized by domestic
but also destroy the rights of the un- abuse, stalking, and other crimes.
Passing this resolution, and then the Last Congress, our House Democratic
ERA, will not only help women, but by born. The ERA advocates have been un-
equivocal about their support for abor- majority passed a VAWA reauthoriza-
unleashing the full economic potential tion that included these expanded pro-
of women, it will help families and tion and for using the ERA to overturn
pro-life laws. tections, but Senate Republicans
boost our economy, all while advancing
Courts have already used State blocked it from consideration. Not that
justice and equality in America for ev-
versions of the ERA to force taxpayers they offered an alternative, not that
eryone.
Madam Speaker, I urge a strong bi- to fund abortions. A Federal ERA they said: This is a problem and we
partisan vote on this strong step to- would threaten State pro-life laws, need to solve it. It has been bipartisan,
ward equality for women, progress for Federal protections like the Hyde so here is our view and we will go to
families, and a stronger America—af- amendment, and conscience protec- conference on it.
firming the truth, Madam Speaker, tions for American medical profes- They simply blocked it.
that you have espoused that when sionals who may otherwise be forced to It is essential, Madam Speaker, that
women succeed, America succeeds. perform an abortion. Congress take action with a long-term
I commend the leadership on this Fortunately, the time limit to pass reauthorization of VAWA, made all the
issue, the distinguished chairman, and the ERA expired decades ago, and there more critical by the rise in domestic
the sponsors of the resolution, JACKIE is agreement that Congress cannot go violence we have seen during the
SPEIER and CAROLYN MALONEY. back and remove a deadline from a pre- COVID–19 pandemic and more people
Mr. NADLER. Madam Speaker, I vious constitutional amendment initia- having to stay home; an epidemic of
yield to the gentlewoman from Georgia tive. For example, the Supreme Court domestic violence. Let’s send a mes-
(Mrs. MCBATH) to control the balance has already recognized that the 1972 sage to the women and men of America
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of my time. ERA expired, and the Department of that Congress will continue to do its
The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- Justice issued a ruling saying: ‘‘Con- part to root out domestic violence and
tlewoman from Georgia will control gress may not revive a proposed abuse.
the time. amendment after a deadline, for its I was just with Congresswoman JACK-
Mrs. FISCHBACH. Madam Speaker, I ratification has expired.’’ SON LEE, the sponsor and the chair of
yield 4 minutes to the gentlewoman Just over a week ago, a Federal dis- the Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland
from Missouri (Mrs. HARTZLER). trict court ruled that the deadline to Security Subcommittee. Chairman
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H1424 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 17, 2021
NADLER is now speaking. I said then, as been passed two centuries ago, but it is Amendments to the Constitution. Our
I say now: It is critical that we pass never too late to do the right thing. Constitution already guarantees that
this legislation. And we can take a major step forward all Americans receive equal protection
I agree with President Biden, the au- this week to make that happen by under the law, and indeed these provi-
thor of the original 1994 Violence passing the bipartisan resolution of- sions have driven our progress as a so-
Against Women Act, that strength- fered by Representatives JACKIE SPEIER ciety.
ening and renewing VAWA is long past and TOM REED. More importantly, many felt that the
due. Once we pass it in the House, I I hope my colleagues will join me in ERA would unleash a crippling ava-
hope the Senate will send it quickly to supporting both H.J. Res. 17 and the re- lanche of activist litigation that could
President Biden to sign it into law. authorization of the Violence Against have unforeseen and unintended impli-
Madam Speaker, I am speaking on Women Act. Both will articulate our cations to issues ranging from abortion
both VAWA, obviously, and the ERA, concern for women, for mothers, for to freedom of conscience and freedom
two very critically important pieces of daughters, for sisters, for neighbors, of speech.
legislation. for friends. Today, 50 years after its adoption,
Last year, Virginia became the 38th We have a chance this week to send a the Democrats propose to retroactively
State to ratify the equal rights amend- message that Congress will not tol- amend the ERA to remove its deadline.
ment. When I hear the opposition to erate violence or discrimination They argue that Congress can alter
the equal rights amendment, you against women, and we have an oppor- amendments it has sent to the States,
would think that we were organizing to tunity to mark this Women’s History even a half century later, and yet still
defeat women’s rights. I think some of Month, not just with words, but with count their ratification votes from a
these speeches were written by Lewis actions that mean something by mak- half century ago.
Carroll. ing history in a very positive way, ben- This would allow them to add three
After Virginia passed and became the efiting not only women, but our Nation States that voted to ratify long after
38th State, the House passed a resolu- as a whole. the deadline was passed for the very
tion to affirm that, with Virginia’s ac- Madam Speaker, I urge all of my col- amendment that established that dead-
tion, the equal rights amendment had leagues to support these two very im- line.
been duly added to our Constitution as portant pieces of legislation. Of course, they don’t explain how to
the 28th Amendment. However, the Re- Mrs. MCBATH. Madam Speaker, I deal with the five States that have
publican-led Senate refused to do the yield to the gentleman from New York since rescinded their ratification votes.
same. (Mr. NADLER) to control the balance of The courts have already ruled
Now, with the Democratic-led Sen- my time. against this approach as brazenly un-
ate, I am hopeful that Congress can af- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- constitutional.
firm the adoption of that amendment tleman from New York will control the As Ruth Bader Ginsburg, an ardent
and provide strong, legal backing to time. supporter of the ERA, pointed out a
those seeking to have it recognized by Mrs. FISCHBACH. Madam Speaker, I few years ago: ‘‘So, if you count a late-
our courts as a full part of our Con- reserve the balance of my time. comer on the plus side, how can you
stitution. Mr. NADLER. Madam Speaker, I disregard States that said, ‘We’ve
What little faith we demonstrate in yield 1 minute to the gentleman from changed our minds?’’’
the courts of the United States of Rhode Island (Mr. CICILLINE). If the majority were serious, it would
America when it is going to be inter- Mr. CICILLINE. Madam Speaker, reintroduce the ERA and debate it
preted, according to some, as not af- every person, regardless of sex, must be openly and constitutionally, as Justice
firming equal rights for women, but treated equally under the law. H.J. Ginsburg suggested. They won’t, be-
somehow undermining equal rights. Res. 17 reaffirms this core American cause they know that in the nearly
That is why I say that I think these value. It makes clear that the arbi- half century that has passed since the
speeches were written by Lewis Car- trary deadline in the equal rights ERA was proposed, the world itself has
roll. amendment may not stand in the way passed them by.
The amendment simply states, as I of achieving full equality for women. Mr. NADLER. Madam Speaker, I
am sure has been said: ‘‘Equality of With women losing their jobs at dis- yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman
rights under the law shall not be de- proportionately high rates, the COVID– from Texas (Ms. GARCIA).
nied or abridged by the United States 19 pandemic has only further revealed Ms. GARCIA of Texas. Madam Speak-
or by any State on account of sex.’’ the need for this amendment. er, as a young woman in Texas, I
How can that be misinterpreted to In 2020, American women lost more
marched with hundreds of other women
say somehow we are enunciating a than 5 million jobs. A vote for this res-
in support of the equal rights amend-
proposition that would undermine olution is a vote for equal access to
ment. Today, I stand with all my col-
rather than protect and lift up the healthcare. It is a vote for equal pay
leagues here to affirm our support for
rights of women? for the same work. It is a vote for
women’s equality.
It is long overdue that we, as a Na- equal opportunity and basic human
Women are behind some of the Na-
tion, affirm this truth: that all men rights in all other aspects of life for
tion’s greatest achievements. We flew
and women are created equal. Not the women in this country.
across the Atlantic, fought for civil
Congress must act now to remove
same, quite obviously, but equal, en- rights, set athletic records, sent men
this arbitrary deadline. There must be
dowed by their Creator with certain to space, and then went there our-
no time limit on guaranteeing equal
unalienable rights; that among these selves. We have forged our own paths
rights under the law.
are life, liberty, and the pursuit of hap- Madam Speaker, I urge my col- and put many cracks in the glass ceil-
piness. leagues to support H.J. Res. 17. ing, but there is still much more to do.
Madam Speaker, I have two grand- ‘‘Women deserve equality.’’ ‘‘Las
daughters and I have three great- b 1115 mujeres merecemos igualdad.’’
granddaughters. The late Justice Ruth Mrs. FISCHBACH. Madam Speaker, I I strongly urge my colleagues to vote
Bader Ginsburg—the famous or, as she yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from ‘‘yes’’ on H.J. Res. 17.
would say from time to time, the infa- California (Mr. MCCLINTOCK). Mrs. FISCHBACH. Madam Speaker, I
mous RGB—said this: ‘‘I would like to Mr. MCCLINTOCK. Madam Speaker, reserve the balance of my time.
see my granddaughters, when they pick nearly a half century ago, Congress Mr. NADLER. Madam Speaker, I
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up the Constitution, to see that no- passed the equal rights amendment and yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman
tion—that women and men are persons sent it to the States with a 7-year from Massachusetts (Mrs. TRAHAN).
of equal stature—I’d like them to see deadline for ratification. When that Mrs. TRAHAN. Madam Speaker, I
that it is a basic principle of our soci- deadline expired in 1979, it was three rise in full support of the equal rights
ety.’’ States short of passage. amendment and to debunk some of the
Madam Speaker, that is what this Many States rejected it because it nonsense being spouted by my col-
amendment is about. It should have was duplicative of the Fifth and 14th leagues across the aisle.
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March 17, 2021 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1425
This legislation is not about special fundamental rights must be guaran- We are the only western democracy
rights, it is not about preferential teed. We must secure equality for without such a clause in its Constitu-
treatment, and it is not about erasing women under the law, in the Constitu- tion. Today, we have an opportunity to
sex differences. It is about finally guar- tion, and in our daily lives. rectify that glaring omission.
anteeing equal rights, plain and simple. If we want to hand a more perfect The arbitrary deadline for ratifica-
Critics of the ERA know that, or at union over to our daughters—and I tion that Congress imposed, and later
least they would if they actually read have two—this Women’s History extended, can be just as easily re-
the legislation. It is right there for all Month, let’s seize the moment and end moved, and that is all this legislation
of us to see. ‘‘Equality of rights under sex discrimination once and for all. does. It can be just as easily removed,
the law shall not be denied or abridged I urge a ‘‘yes’’ vote on this resolution because it is not part of the amend-
by the United States or by any State to remove the arbitrary and outdated ment, as some of our Republican
on account of sex,’’ period. deadline for ratifying the ERA. friends said.
Everyone in this Capitol has a moth- Mrs. FISCHBACH. Madam Speaker, I Every amendment since the 22nd
er, and some of us are blessed to have reserve the balance of my time. Amendment, except for the 27th, has
daughters. This amendment is about Mr. NADLER. Madam Speaker, I had such a clause. And if you look at
them. It is about completing the work yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman the text of the Constitution, it is not
of generations of women before us who from Connecticut (Ms. DELAURO). there. That is because the deadline is
marched for full equality, and it is Ms. DELAURO. Madam Speaker, for part of the resolution proposing the
about finishing that journey so that nearly 50 years, our country has strived constitutional amendment, not part of
the next generation will experience to make equal rights for women a the constitutional amendment. If Con-
nothing other than full and fair rights foundational value in the United gress can establish a deadline by reso-
under the law. States Constitution through the equal lution, it can certainly, by resolution,
I urge my colleagues to give our rights amendment. Women deserve extend or change the deadline. That is
daughters that chance. Join us and nothing less than equal treatment, all this resolution does.
pass this resolution. whether it be equal pay for equal work, Adopting the ERA would bring our
Mrs. FISCHBACH. Madam Speaker, I freedom from discrimination, freedom country closer to truly fulfilling values
reserve the balance of my time. from sexual assault, or freedom from of inclusion and equal opportunity for
Mr. NADLER. Madam Speaker, I domestic violence. The equal rights all people. Adopting this legislation
yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman amendment will help to fill those gaps. would help make this a reality.
from Michigan (Mrs. LAWRENCE). We now have enough States for that I urge all Members to support this
Mrs. LAWRENCE. Madam Speaker, I to become the law of the land. This res- resolution.
rise today in strong support of remov- olution will help clear the path for this Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to
ing this arbitrary time limit for ratify- much-needed change, and I urge my the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms.
ing the equal rights amendment. colleagues to support this important JACKSON LEE).
I ask all my colleagues: Are we going resolution so that every woman and (Ms. JACKSON LEE asked and was
to tell our mothers, our sisters, daugh- every girl can have equal justice under given permission to revise and extend
ters, nieces, and granddaughters that the law. her remarks.)
there is an expiration date on equality? I ask my colleagues on the other side Ms. JACKSON LEE. Madam Speaker,
I hope that answer is no. of the aisle: What are you afraid of? we have just been engaged in pre-
This pandemic has only worsened the Why? Why can you not affirm equal senting to the public the Violence
inequality that women are facing, espe- rights for women in the United States Against Women Act. But all of it
cially women of color. Making the of America? It is not a hard mountain stands on the shoulders of the equal
equal rights amendment a part of our to climb. But it says every woman and rights amendment, which has been long
Constitution guarantees that men and every girl can have equal justice under overdue.
women are truly treated equal under the law. What an amazing journey that this
the law. Mrs. FISCHBACH. Madam Speaker, I legislation has taken, and how sad it is
Today, the House can send a clear reserve the balance of my time. to acknowledge that we are one of only
message that we will not tolerate sex- Mr. NADLER. Madam Speaker, we a few nations that does not have an
ual discrimination, that gender equal- are prepared to close. equal rights amendment in its con-
ity should be the law of the land. Mrs. FISCHBACH. Madam Speaker, I stitution.
Mrs. FISCHBACH. Madam Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. I remember going to Afghanistan and
reserve the balance of my time. Madam Speaker, I oppose H.J. Res. working with the women of Afghani-
Mr. NADLER. Madam Speaker, I 17. I believe that the speakers we have stan to include the rights of women in
yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman had here today on our side have agreed their Constitution. I want to say that
from Florida (Ms. WASSERMAN with that and made very, very effective again: To include the rights of women
SCHULTZ). points on why to oppose this resolu- in their Constitution.
Ms. WASSERMAN SCHULTZ. tion. So let me speak clearly to vital
Madam Speaker, today, we confront Men and women are already equal points of this resolution. This is not an
one of America’s lingering legacies of under the Constitution. This legisla- abortion bill. However, we realize that
discrimination. tion would make us no more equal. It the right to choose is embedded in the
At America’s founding, women were is merely a vehicle for the far-left’s Constitution in the Ninth Amendment.
intentionally left out of the Constitu- special interest groups to use to enact But this is not that.
tion and, as second-class citizens, we their pro-abortion agenda. It is uncon- It is a bill that says that women have
did not have the right to vote or own stitutional. It is unnecessary. And it a right, as Alice Paul said so many
property. should not become law. years ago, to be able to have rights of
Today, we still receive less pay for Madam Speaker, I urge my col- equality under this flag, under this
the same work, and we face actual or leagues to oppose this resolution, and I Constitution. Are we suggesting that
imminent threats of violence and har- yield back the balance of my time. that should not be?
assment daily. Mr. NADLER. Madam Speaker, I In addition, let it be very clear that
But the equal rights amendment re- yield myself such time as I may con- any court decision that was issued, the
jects that. sume. U.S. District Court for the District of
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After over a century, the ERA is on Madam Speaker, Alice Paul’s equal Columbia, that is, the Commonwealth
the cusp of ratification, and we finally rights amendment was introduced in of Virginia v. Ferriero, we can explain
have a President who will make this both Houses of Congress way back in that case, because the Court said the
long overdue provision of our Constitu- 1923. But 96 years later, the United only authority to extend the deadline
tion a reality. States Constitution still does not ex- was Congress, and here we are. Con-
Women’s rights should not depend on plicitly declare that women have equal gress is now intending to extend that
which party is in power. These basic rights under the law. deadline.
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H1426 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 17, 2021
Nothing in the Constitution prohibits last three ratifications are valid, the ERA will olence, National Congress of American Indi-
that. It is not embedded in the amend- become law. ans, LegalMomentum: The Women’s Legal
ment. And by Article V, we are able to Unfortunately, a federal district court ruled Defense and Education Fund, JWI, and Casa
deal with deadlines. Deadlines are a two weeks ago that these states were too late de Esperanza.
simple process of statutory authority, because the ratification deadline that Con- MARCH 8, 2021.
and that is what we are doing today. gress set had expired already in 1982. Hon. SHEILA JACKSON LEE,
I don’t think my friends on the other Importantly, that court affirmed that Con- Hon. BRIAN FITZPATRICK,
side of the aisle want to leave without gress has the power to set ratifications dead- House of Representatives,
recognizing the fact that women make lines, as Article V of the Constitution, which Washington, DC.
80 cents for every $1 a man earns, and governs the constitutional amendment proc- Hon. JERROLD NADLER,
that they are treated unfairly in the ess, does not itself provide for ratification House of Representatives,
workplace. deadlines of any kind. Of course, the power to Washington, DC.
If you want equal dignity, if you set deadlines necessarily includes the power DEAR CHAIRWOMAN JACKSON LEE, REP-
want the rights of women to be pro- to remove those deadlines. RESENTATIVE FITZPATRICK, AND CHAIRMAN
moted, vote for the ERA. By removing the ratification deadline that NADLER: The National Coalition Against Do-
Madam Speaker, I strongly support H.J. Congress set previously, H.J. Res. 17 ensures mestic Violence, (NCADV) applauds you for
Res. 17. H.J. Res. 17, introduced by Rep- that the recent ratifications by Nevada, Illinois, introducing the Violence Against Women Re-
resentative JACKIE SPEIER with 209 co-spon- and Virginia are counted and that the ERA be- authorization Act of 2021. The Violence
sors, would take a critical step towards ensur- comes part of our Constitution. Against Women Act (VAWA) is one of the
ing that the Equal Rights Amendment, or We are on the verge of a breakthrough for three pillars of the Federal response to do-
‘‘ERA’’, becomes part of the Constitution. equality in this country, despite all the obsta- mestic violence. First passed in 1994 under
The resolution provides that notwithstanding cles in our current political and social climate. the leadership of then-Senator Biden, VAWA
the ratification deadline of 1979 that Congress This resolution will ensure that no deadline has been reauthorized three times since
set for the ERA and later extended to 1982, then, most recently in 2013. VAWA’s author-
stands in the way. Therefore, I strongly sup-
ization lapsed in 2018.
the ERA ‘‘shall be valid to all intents and pur- port H.J. Res. 17 and urge its passage by the
poses as part of the Constitution whenever House. Every reauthorization included critical up-
ratified by the legislatures of three-fourths of Mr. NADLER. Madam Speaker, I dates to enhance America’s response to do-
the several States.’’ yield back the balance of my time. mestic violence and other forms of gender-
The purpose of the ERA is simple and fun- Ms. JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, based violence. These enhancements reflect
damental: It ensures that everyone is treated I rise today to offer my strong support for H.J. the evolution of our understanding of the dy-
equally under the law, regardless of sex or Res. 17, a resolution removing the time limit namics of violence and the needs of impacted
gender. Almost one hundred years ago, Alice for ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment. communities. The Violence Against Women
Paul, who helped lead the campaign to secure Women in the United States make extraor- Reauthorization Act of 2021 is the successor
women’s right to vote, proposed the first dinary contributions to our workforce and com- bill to these previous reauthorizations and is
a slightly updated version of the H.R. 1585/S.
version of the ERA. munities—and even more so in the face of the
2843, the Violence Against Women Reauthor-
She and her fellow suffragists knew that if COVID–19 pandemic. Yet, unfortunately, we
ization Act of 2019, which passed the House of
women were to achieve true equality, our Na- remain unprotected under the law from dis-
Representatives with strong bipartisan sup-
tion’s founding document needed to be crimination. This long-overdue legislation will
port before dying in the Senate.
amended to reflect that core principle. Nearly enshrine in our Constitution the principle of
a century later, it is long past time to make women’s equality and explicitly prohibit dis- Like its predecessor, the updated 2021 bill
that dream a reality. crimination based on sex. invests in prevention; keeps guns out of the
In 1971 and 1972, the House and Senate, The Equal Rights Amendment states simply: hands of adjudicated dating abusers and
respectively, passed the ERA by well more ‘‘equality of rights under the law shall not be stalkers; promotes survivors’ economic sta-
than the constitutionally-mandated two-thirds bility; ends impunity for non Natives who
denied or abridged by the United States or by
commit gender-based violence on Tribal
majority in each chamber. any State on account of sex.’’ And in this sim-
lands by expanding special tribal criminal
It contained these simple words: ‘‘Equality of ple text is guaranteed the following:
jurisdiction beyond domestic violence; and
rights under the law shall not be denied or Avenues of legal recourse for people who increases survivors’ access to safe housing.
abridged by the United States or by any State face sex-based discrimination, The Violence Against Women Reauthoriza-
on account of sex.’’ In the years that quickly Prompting of Supreme Court to consider tion Act of 2021 also recognizes the disparate
followed, dozens of States ratified the ERA cases of sex discrimination with rigorous impact of gender-based violence on commu-
through their legislatures. standards, and nities of color due to systemic racism and in-
By the end of the 1970s, the ERA was just The power for Congress to enact laws that creases funding for culturally specific orga-
a few States short of full ratification. But then ensure sex equality in all aspects of life. nizations serving these communities. The Vi-
progress slowed, and the deadline Congress It is for these reasons, and many others not olence Against Women Reauthorization Act
had set for ratification passed. A well-orga- listed, that we must act to remove the arbitrary of 2021 expands VAWA’s life-saving provi-
nized counter-movement scared the American time limit for ratification and codify this sions to increase access to safety and justice
people into thinking that a guarantee of equal- Amendment. for all survivors.
ity would somehow harm women who stay at As a member of the Democratic Women’s It is particularly critical to reauthorize
home to raise their children or would erode Caucus, I am steadfast in my commitment to and improve VAWA as we continue to battle
American families. What had started as a mat- advancing women’s rights both in my district the COVID–19 pandemic. In a recent survey
ter of broad consensus became another divi- and across the nation. My tenure in Congress of domestic violence programs, 84% reported
sive wedge in the culture wars. has been in part defined by my advocacy on that intimate partner violence has increased
Today we know better. We know that in the behalf of women and their successes—but I in their community during the pandemic.
year 2021, it is unacceptable that women still stand on the shoulders of generations of hero- Fifty percent reported the use of firearms.
make only 80 cents for every dollar men earn. ines fighting for equality. It is in their honor against intimate partners has increased, and
We know that when women are treated with that I support this legislation today. one-third reported intimate partner homi-
equal dignity and respect in the workplace, in I urge my colleagues to support H.J. Res. cides have increased in their communities.
the home, by our institutions of government, 17. The Violence Against Women Reauthoriza-
and in our society at large, all of the American Ms. JACKSON LEE. Madam Speaker, I in- tion Act of 2021 responds to the needs of sur-
people stand to benefit. And we know that a clude the following letters of endorsement for vivors and supports the programs that serve
simple but fundamental guarantee of equality H.R. 1620, the Violence Against Women’s Act them.
SSpencer on DSK126QN23PROD with HOUSE
should be welcomed rather than feared. (VAWA) into the RECORD. We thank you, again, for your leadership,
Thankfully, the momentum for ERA ratifica- Letters are from: The National Coalition and we urge the House to pass the Violence
tion has picked back up. Nevada ratified the Against Domestic Violence, National Resource Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2021
ERA in 2017, and Illinois followed suit the next Center on Domestic Violence, The National as a matter of upmost urgency.
year. Then, in January 2020, Virginia made Center on Violence Against Women in the Sincerely,
history and became the 38th State to pass a Black Community, YWCA, End Sexual Vio- The National Coalition Against Domestic
resolution ratifying the ERA. So long as these lence, National Coalition Against Domestic Vi- Violence.
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March 17, 2021 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1427
NATIONAL RESOURCE CENTER Updating the federal definition of domestic of Black women and they have been denied
ON DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, violence for the purposes of VAWA grants adequate resources and access to legal sys-
Harrisburg, PA, March 8, 2021. only to acknowledge the full range of abuse tems, funding, crisis services, and other pro-
Hon. JERRY NADLER, victims suffer (does not impact the criminal grams.
House of Representatives, definition of domestic violence); Thank you for not only hearing the needs
Washington, DC. Maintaining existing protections for all of Black survivors, but also addressing them
Hon. BRIAN FITZPATRICK, survivors; and in H.R. 1620 which provides measured en-
House of Representatives, Improving the healthcare system’s re- hancements for the bipartisan support and
Washington, DC. sponse to domestic violence, sexual assault, passage of such critical provisions as
Hon. SHEILA JACKSON LEE, dating violence, and stalking. strengthening and enforcing public housing
House of Representatives, Again, thank you for championing the protections, improving access to healthcare
Washington, DC. needs of victims and survivors and for sup- options, expanding civil legal representation,
DEAR REPRESENTATIVES NADLER, JACKSON porting the work of domestic and sexual vio- promoting firearm surrender protocols, re-
LEE AND FITZPATRICK: On behalf of the Na- lence programs across the country. We look
ducing bench warrants for victims who fear
tional Resource Center on Domestic Vio- forward to continuing to work with you and
to appear in court, creating restorative prac-
lence, which has worked since 1993 to your colleagues in Congress to ensure bipar-
tices that are solutions-based, expanding
strengthen and transform efforts to end do- tisan support for VAWA 2021 and to pass leg-
tribal sovereignty over specific crimes com-
mestic violence, I am writing to express our islation that will provide needed services and
mitted by non-Native perpetrators, and
support for the Reauthorization of the Vio- supports to survivors and their families and
prioritizing sexual assault prevention to
lence Against Women Act (VAWA) of 2021 communities.
ameliorate intervention.
and our gratitude for your leadership in en- Sincerely,
Additionally, the following provisions will
suring that survivors are able to access life- FARZANA Q. SAFIULLAH,
Chief Executive Officer. greatly improve services for Black survivors
saving programs and services. and we deeply appreciate the inclusion of: a
With each reauthorization of VAWA, Con- --
THE NATIONAL CENTER ON VLOLENCE $40 million authorization for the Culturally
gress has made important steps forward to Specific Services Program; economic justice
better address the needs of survivors and AGAINST WOMEN IN THE BLACK
COMMUNITY, programs that include access to unemploy-
communities. Based on extensive conversa-
Washington, DC, March 10, 2021. ment insurance; and protections for all sur-
tions with and feedback from local programs
Hon. SHEILA JACKSON LEE, vivors accessing services thereby preventing
and advocates about current strengths and
US. House of Representatives, discrimination.
disparities in VAWA, we—along with our
Washington, DC. Thank you for your unyielding and tireless
partners in the domestic and sexual violence
Hon. JERROLD NADLER, efforts and bringing the margins to the cen-
movements—recommended several key en-
House of Representatives, ter to ensure that VAWA, after twenty-seven
hancements to the current statute. We are
very pleased that your legislation includes Washington, DC. years, continues to prioritize the safety of
the targeted improvements that programs Hon. BRIAN FITZPATRICK, survivors and hold perpetrators accountable
across the country need to do their jobs and House of Representatives, in a way that is survivor-centered, honors
support survivors. Washington, DC. self-determination, and reduces re-victimiza-
According to the Centers for Disease Con- DEAR REPRESENTATIVES JACKSON LEE, tion by systems. We are deeply moved by
trol’s National Intimate Partner and Sexual FITZPATRICK, AND NADLER: Ujima Inc., The your commitment to social change that pro-
Violence Survey (NISVS), 1 in 4 women and National Center on Violence Against Women motes access to services and justice for all
1 in 9 men are the victim of physical vio- in the Black Community (Ujima, Inc.) is people, and we embrace the opportunity to
lence, contact sexual violence and/or stalk- pleased to support H.R. 1620, the bipartisan stand with you.
ing by an intimate partner and experience Violence Against Women Reauthorization We are available to assist you at any time
negative impacts such as injury, fear, con- Act of 2021. Ujima, Inc. is a national Cul- to facilitate the passage of this landmark bi-
cern for safety, or a need for services. In just turally Specific Services Issue Resource Cen- partisan bill that is the hallmark of our
one day in 2019, 77,226 domestic violence vic- ter that mobilizes the Black community and work.
tims and their children received services at a allies through its education and outreach; Respectfully,
local program in their community, including training and technical assistance; resource KARMA COTTMAN,
emergency shelter, transitional housing, development; research; and public policy ef- Executive Director.
counseling, legal advocacy, and children’s forts. We work with local, state, and na- YWCA,
support groups. However, on that same day, tional partners to promote strategies to im- Washington, DC, March 12, 2021.
11,336 requests for services went unmet be- prove responses to Black survivors of domes- DEAR MEMBER OF CONGRESS: On behalf of
cause programs lacked the resources to meet tic violence, sexual assault, and community YWCA USA, a network of over 200 local asso-
victims’ needs. Of those unmet requests for violence. We appreciated the opportunity to ciations in 45 states and the District of Co-
services, 68% were for housing. Indeed, safe give voice to the needs of Black survivors lumbia, I write today to urge you to pass the
housing is among the most pressing concerns during the collaborative process of H.R. 1585 Violence Against Women Reauthorization
for survivors who have left or are planning and we are encouraged to see the enhance- Act (VAWA) of 2021 (H.R. 1620). As identified
to leave an abusive relationship. Thirty- ments in H.R. 1620 as COVID–19, racial jus- in YWCA’s Legislative Priorities for the
eight (38) percent of all domestic violence tice movements, and economic strife have 117th Congress, YWCA is committed to the
victims become homeless at some point in presented complex challenges for those we swift passage of VAWA in the first 100 days
their lives. And among mothers with chil- serve since the passage of H.R. 1585 in 2019. of the new legislative session. We urge you
dren experiencing homelessness, more than Since 1994, the Violence Against Women to vote yes and support strengthening serv-
80 percent had previously experienced domes- Act has made significant shifts in the cul- ices for survivors and their children.
tic violence. We are particularly grateful tural and legal landscape for prevention and For over 160 years, YWCA has been on a
that your legislation would strengthen pro- intervention strategies to address gender- mission to eliminate racism, empower
tections for survivors in public housing, in- based violence. Specialized courts, prosecu- women, and promote peace, justice, freedom,
cluding by ensuring that survivors can trans- tion units, law enforcement departments, and dignity for all. Today, we serve over 2
fer units when necessary for safety reasons, community-based programs, coordinated million women, girls and family members of
as well as other housing protections that are community responses, and discretionary all ages and backgrounds in more than 1,200
critical for survivors seeking safety and sta- grant funding for innovate solutions have communities. As the largest network of do-
bility. been the central tenets of ground-breaking mestic and sexual violence service providers,
We are also supportive of other key pro- legislation to save lives. However, Black over 150 YWCAs across 44 states remain on
posals in your legislation, including: women still experience the highest rates of the front lines providing gender-based vio-
Supporting Communities of Color; homicide related to intimate partner vio- lence services. We are proud of our staff and
Investing in prevention;
lence compared to other racial and ethnic volunteers in providing these life-saving
Ending impunity for non-Native perpetra-
populations. In 2018, Black females were services. YWCAs get up and do the work of
tors of sexual assault, child abuse co-occur-
murdered by males at a rate nearlv three providing safe and secure housing, crisis hot-
ring with domestic violence, stalking, sex
times higher than white females. Despite the lines, counseling, court assistance, and other
trafficking, and assaults on tribal law en-
prevalence of domestic violence, Black sur- community and safety programs to more
forcement officers on tribal lands;
Improving enforcement of court orders vivors are less likely to seek help from sys- than 535,000 women, children, and families
SSpencer on DSK126QN23PROD with HOUSE
that require adjudicated domestic abusers to tems-based stakeholders because institu- each year.
relinquish their firearms; tional bias coupled with racial loyalty/col- Informed by our extensive history, the ex-
Improving access to housing for victims lectivism directly impact how she perceives, pertise of our nationwide network, and our
and survivors; reacts to, and reports violence in her life. In- collective commitment to meeting the needs
Protecting victims of dating violence from stitutionalized and internalized oppression of survivors and their families, we have seen
firearm homicide; at the intersections of race and gender have first-hand the importance of maintaining
Helping survivors gain and maintain eco- created the foundation for unrecognized, protections for all survivors in the Violence
nomic independence; unaddressed trauma and violence in the lives Against Women Act (VAWA). This bill works
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H1428 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 17, 2021
to maintain the safety, resources, and pro- survivors and communities. Based on exten- dian Country and the limitations imposed by
tections critical to all survivors, particu- sive conversations with local programs and federal law on tribal authority to hold non-
larly women of color and other marginalized advocates, we brought forward several key Indians accountable for crimes they commit
communities. Of particular importance, enhancements, and we are very pleased that on tribal lands.
VAWA includes the following YWCA sup- your legislation includes many of these. We stand with you in affirming tribes’ sov-
ported provisions critical to survlvors: From an increased investment in sexual vio- ereignty to prosecute non-native offenders of
Improves services for victims by re- lence services and prevention programs and sexual assault, child abuse, trafficking and
authoring programs administered by the culturally specific organizations that serve stalking. VAWA 2013 restored the authority
U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and U.S. communities of color to provisions to hold of Tribes to arrest and prosecute offenders,
Health and Human Services to prevent and offenders accountable on tribal lands to ef- regardless of their race, for acts of domestic
address domestic violence, sexual violence, forts to make our criminal justice system violence committed within the boundaries of
dating violence, and stalking while pre- more responsive to the needs of victims, this their jurisdiction. Since enactment, at least
serving and expanding housing protections legislation includes the realistic policies our 16 Tribes have undertaken the steps to exer-
for survivors; programs need to do their jobs. cise the special domestic violence criminal
Increases authorization levels for response According to the National Intimate Part- jurisdiction {SDVCJ) restored by VAWA
and wrap-around services especially impor- ner and Sexual Violence Survey, one in five 2013—leading to over 120 arrests. Tribal vic-
tant following a year of increased strain on women has been the victim of rape or at- tims deserve justice, and we fully support
existing providers due to the COVID–19 pan- tempted rape. Nearly one in two women has these provisions.
demic; experienced some form of sexual violence Many survivors of sexual assault, abuse,
Invests in prevention through increased and one in five men has experienced a form and harassment have housing needs. For
funding for programs such as the Consoli- of sexual violence other than rape in their some survivors, home may not be a safe
dated Youth grants which support engaging lifetime. The study confirmed that the im- place and they may need to leave due to sex-
men and boys as allies and addressing chil- pacts on society are enormous. Over 80% of ual violence they are experiencing in their
dren exposed to violence and trauma with women who were victimized experienced sig- home that is perpetrated by a household
specialized services. This bill also provides nificant short and long-term impacts related member, landlord, or neighbor. Other sur-
support to State-level health programs to to the violence such as Post-Traumatic vivors may need to find safe housing to heal
partner with domestic and sexual violence Stress Disorder (PTSD), injury (42%) and and lessen the effects of sexual violence they
organizations to improve healthcare pro- missed time at work or school (28%). The have experienced either in their home or
viders’ ability to work with advocates, help CDC report shows that most rape and part- they may need to find new housing if the
victims, and strengthen prevention pro- ner violence is experienced before the age of perpetrator knows where they live to stay
grams; 24, highlighting the importance of pre- safe. VAWA includes important protections
Closes loopholes by improving enforcement venting this violence before it occurs. for survivors of sexual assault in public
of current federal domestic violence-related High profile cases of sexual assault on housing, and these provisions are a critical
firearms laws and close loopholes to reduce campuses, our military bases, military acad- part of the safety net for survivors.
firearm-involved abuse and intimate partner emies, and professional sports have resulted We are very pleased to support your vital
homicide, which has received bipartisan sup- in unprecedented media attention. This has legislation that moves us forward in our
port; also resulted in a tremendous increase in work to end sexual violence. Please contact
Increases funding for culturally-specific sexual assault survivors seeking assistance our Policy Director, Terri Poore, with any
service providers and increases authorization from local rape crisis centers and educators questions.
levels to hold current providers harmless; as well as community organizations request- Sincerely,
Improves the economic security of sur- ing prevention and training services. The MONIKA JOHNSON HOSTLER
vivors by expanding eligibility for unemploy- media attention also points to the need for President.
ment insurance, strengthening protections comprehensive community responses to sex-
against discrimination in employment based ual violence. According to data from a 2020 MARCH 8, 2021.
on survivor status, and increasing education survey conducted by NAESV, 62% of local Hon. SHEILA JACKSON LEE,
on economic abuse and economic security re- sexual assault programs have a waiting list, House of Representatives,
lated to survivors. sometimes months long, for counseling serv- Washington, DC.
Immediate action by Congress is needed as ices and 35% lack a full time sexual assault Hon. JERROLD NADLER,
the COVID–19 pandemic continues to put a therapist on staff. House of Representatives,
strain on resources and the demand for as- For these reasons, we are incredibly grate- Washington, DC.
sistance continues to rise with this silent ful that your legislation increases the au- Hon. BRIAN FITZPATRICK,
epidemic. Survivors cannot wait another day thorizations for the Sexual Assault Services House of Representatives,
for the critical protections identified in the Program and the Rape Prevention and Edu- Washington, DC.
Violence Against Women Reauthorization cation Program. The local programs in our DEAR CHAIRWOMAN JACKSON LEE, REP-
Act (VAWA) of 2021. We urge you to vote yes network see every day the widespread and RESENTATIVE FITZPATRICK, AND CHAIRMAN
on this critical bill. devastating consequences of sexual violence, NADLER: The National Coalition Against Do-
Thank you for your time and consider- and this additional funding will help them mestic Violence (NCADV) applauds you for
ation. Please contact Pam Yuen, YWCA USA respond to community requests for services introducing the Violence Against Women Re-
Director of Government Relations if you and prevention education. authorization Act of 2021. The Violence
have any questions. Of deep concern to NAESV, tribal govern- Against Women Act (VAWA) is one of the
Sincerely, ments are currently unable to prosecute three pillars of the Federal response to do-
CATHERINE V. BEANE, crimes of sexual assault, trafficking, child mestic violence. First passed in 1994 under
Vice President of Public Policy & Advocacy. abuse, and stalking by non-native offenders the leadership of then-Senator Biden, VAWA
on their lands. A 2016 study from the Na- has been reauthorized three times since
NATIONAL ALLIANCE TO tional Institute for Justice (NIJ), found that then, most recently in 2013. VAWA’s author-
END SEXUAL VIOLENCE, approximately 56% of Native women experi- ization lapsed in 2018.
March 4, 2021. ence sexual violence within their lifetime, Every reauthorization included critical up-
Hon SHEILA JACKSON LEE, with 1 in 7 experiencing it in the past year. dates to enhance America’s response to do-
House of Representatives, Nearly 1 in 2 report being stalked. Contrary mestic violence and other forms of gender-
Washington, DC. to the general population where rape, sexual based violence. These enhancements reflect
Hon. BRIAN FITZPATRICK, assault, and intimate partner violence are the evolution of our understanding of the dy-
House of Representatives, usually intra-racial, Native women are more namics of violence and the needs of impacted
Washington, DC. likely to be raped or assaulted by someone of communities. The Violence Against Women
DEAR REPRESENTATIVES JACKSON LEE AND a different race. 96% of Native women and Reauthorization Act of 2021 is the successor
FITZPATRICK: On behalf of the National Alli- 89% of male victims in the NIJ study re- bill to these previous reauthorizations and is
ance to End Sexual Violence (NAESV) rep- ported being victimized by a non-Indian. Na- a slightly updated version of the H.R. 1585/S.
resenting 56 state and territorial sexual as- tive victims of sexual violence are three 2843, the Violence Against Women Reauthor-
sault coalitions and more than 1500 local times as likely to have experienced sexual ization Act of 2019, which passed the House of
rape crisis centers, I am writing to convey violence by an interracial perpetrator as Representatives with strong bipartisan sup-
our wholehearted support for the Violence non-Hispanic White victims. Similarly, Na- port before dying in the Senate.
SSpencer on DSK126QN23PROD with HOUSE
Against Women Act Reauthorization Act of tive stalking victims are nearly 4 times as. Like its predecessor, the updated 2021 bill
2021 reauthorizing and improving the Vio- likely to be stalked by someone of a dif- invests in prevention; keeps guns out of the
lence Against Women Act (VAWA) and our ferent race, with 89% of female stalking vic- hands of adjudicated dating abusers and
gratitude for your willingness to move for- tims and 90% of male stalking victims re- stalkers; promotes survivors’ economic sta-
ward to ensure we renew VAWA as swiftly as porting inter-racial victimization. The high- bility; ends impunity for non-Natives who
possible. er rate of inter-racial violence would not commit gender-based violence on Tribal
With each iteration of VAWA, Congress necessarily be significant if It were not for lands by expanding special tribal criminal
goes the next step to address the needs of the jurisdictional complexities unique to In- jurisdiction beyond domestic violence; and
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March 17, 2021 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1429
increases survivors’ access to safe housing. to cover costs incurred by tribes who are ex- THE NATIONAL CONGRESS OF AMERICAN
The Violence Against Women Reauthoriza- ercising jurisdiction pursuant to 25 U.S.C. INDIANS RESOLUTION #ECWS–19–005
tion Act of 2021 also recognizes the disparate 1304. Urging Congress to Pass a Long-term Reau-
impact of gender-based violence on commu- thorization of the Violence Against
We are pleased to see that your legislation
nities of color due to systemic racism and In- Women Act that Includes Key Protec-
continues to build on VAWA’s promise and
creases funding for culturally specific orga- tions for Native Women
nizations serving these communities. The Vi- includes the key priorities that have been
identified by tribal governments and advo- Whereas, we, the members of the National
olence Against Women Reauthorization Act Congress of American Indians of the United
of 2021 expands VAWA’s life-saving provi- cates to further enhance safety for victims
in tribal communities. States, invoking the divine blessing of the
sions to increase access to safety and justice Creator upon our efforts and purposes, in
for all survivors. As you know, tribal communities continue order to preserve for ourselves and our de-
It is particularly critical to reauthorize to be plagued by the highest crime victim- scendants the inherent sovereign rights of
and improve VAWA as we continue to battle ization rates in the country. A recent study our Indian nations, rights secured under In-
the COVID–19 pandemic. In a recent survey by the National Institute of Justice found dian treaties and agreements with the
of domestic violence programs, 84% reported that over 80% of Native Americans will be a United States, and all other rights and bene-
that intimate partner violence has increased victim of intimate partner violence, sexual fits to which we are entitled under the laws
in their community during the pandemic.
violence, or stalking in their lifetime. The and Constitution of the United States and
Fifty percent reported the use of firearms
study also found that 90% of these victims the United Nations Declaration on the
against intimate partners has increased, and
were victimized by a non-Indian perpetrator. Rights of Indigenous Peoples, to enlighten
one-third reported intimate partner homi-
Sadly, Native children are particularly af- the public toward a better understanding of
cides have increased in their communities.
fected by this violence. Native children are the Indian people, to preserve Indian cul-
The Violence Against Women Reauthoriza-
50% more likely to experience child abuse tural values, and otherwise promote the
tion Act of 2021 responds to the needs of sur-
and sexual abuse than white children. The health, safety and welfare of the Indian peo-
vivors and supports the programs that serve
complicated jurisdictional framework at ple, do hereby establish and submit the fol-
them.
play in Indian Country continues to under- lowing resolution; and
We thank you, again, for your leadership,
and we urge the House to pass the Violence mine safety for victims of violence in tribal Whereas, the National Congress of Amer-
Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2021 communities. ican Indians (NCAI) was established in 1944
as a matter of upmost urgency. and is the oldest and largest national organi-
Eight years ago, when Congress passed zation of American Indian and Alaska Native
Sincerely, VAWA 2013, it included a provision, known
The National Coalition Against Domestic tribal governments; and
as Special Domestic Violence Criminal Ju- Whereas, NCAI resolution STP–00–081 es-
Violence.
-- risdiction (SDVCJ), that reaffirmed the in- tablished the NCAI Task Force on Violence
herent sovereign authority of Indian tribal Against Native Women, which has worked
NATIONAL CONGRESS OF
AMERICAN INDIANS, governments to exercise criminal jurisdic- since that time to identify needed policy re-
Washington, DC, March 16, 2021. tion over certain non-Indians who violate forms at the tribal and federal levels, includ-
Re: Support for Passage of HR 1620, the Vio- qualifying protection orders or commit do- ing in the Violence Against Women Act
lence Against Women Reauthorization mestic or dating violence against Indian vic- (VAWA);
Act of 2021. tims on tribal lands. Since passage of VAWA Whereas, VAWA was first passed in 1994,
Hon. SHEILA JACKSON LEE, 2013, we have witnessed the ways in which reauthorized in 2000, again in 2005, and 2013
House of Representatives, tribal jurisdiction has transformed access to and each of these bills included important
Washington, DC. justice for some domestic violence victims, provisions aimed at improving safety and
Hon. BRIAN FITZPATRICK, and also the ways in which it falls short for justice for Native women;
House of Representatives, victims of sexual violence, stalking, traf- Whereas, the last long-term reauthoriza-
Washington, DC. ficking, and child abuse. We welcome intro- tion of VAWA expired on September 30, 2018
DEAR REPRESENTATIVE JACKSON LEE AND duction of your bill, which would address and Congress has passed a series of short-
REPRESENTATIVE FITZPATRICK: I am writing many of the gaps in the existing law and term extensions that leave VAWA currently
on behalf of the National Congress of Amer- make important strides toward restoring scheduled to expire on February 15, 2019;
ican Indians (NCAI), the nation’s oldest and public safety and justice on tribal lands. Whereas, Native communities continue to
largest organization of American Indian and experience high levels of domestic violence,
We are particularly grateful that your leg-
Alaska Native tribal governments, to thank sexual violence, child abuse, stalking, mur-
islation recognizes that Native children are
you for your leadership in introducing HR der, and trafficking, many of these crimes
equally in need of the protections that were
1620, the Violence Against Women Reauthor- are committed by non-Indians, and there is a
extended to adult domestic violence victims
ization Act (VAWA) of 2021, and to convey need to amend federal law to improve access
our support for your efforts. NCAI has been in VAWA 2013. The Tribal Nations imple-
to justice and safety for victims in tribal
actively involved in the development of the menting SDVCJ report that children have
communities;
tribal provisions of VAWA in each of the been involved as victims or witnesses in
SDVCJ cases nearly 60% of the time. These Whereas, VAWA 2013 included a provision
past reauthorizations of the bill. Each time that reaffirmed the inherent sovereign au-
VAWA has been reauthorized, it has included children have been assaulted or have faced
thority of Indian tribal governments to exer-
important provisions aimed at improving physical intimidation and threats, are living
cise criminal jurisdiction over certain non-
safety and justice for Native women. in fear, and are at risk for developing school-
Indians who violate qualifying protection or-
In 2019, NCAI adopted resolution ECWS–19– related problems, medical illnesses, post-
ders or commit domestic or dating violence
005 (attached), which sets forth five prior- traumatic stress disorder, and other impair- against Indian victims on tribal lands;
ities for reauthorization of the Violence ments. However, federal law currently limits
Whereas, by exercising jurisdiction over
Against Women Act: SDVCJ to crimes committed only against in-
non-Indian domestic violence offenders many
(1) include provisions, like those included timate partners or persons covered by a
tribal communities have increased safety
in the bipartisan Native Youth and Tribal qualifying protection order. The common and justice for victims who had previously
Officer Protection Act and Justice for Native scenario reported by Tribal Nations is that seen little of either;
Survivors of Sexual Violence Act, that they are only able to charge a non-Indian
amend 25 U.S.C. 1304 to address jurisdictional Whereas, the Department of Justice (DOJ)
batterer for violence against the mother, and
gaps including: child abuse and testified before the Senate Committee on In-
can do nothing about violence against the
endangerment; assaults against law enforce- dian Affairs in 2016 that VAWA 2013 has al-
children. Your bill would change that. lowed tribes to ‘‘respond to long-time abus-
ment officers; sexual violence; stalking; traf-
ficking; and the exclusion of certain tribes Your bill will also make strides in improv- ers who previously had evaded justice,’’ but
from the law; ing the coordination and collaboration be- that there are significant additional gaps
(2) create a permanent authorization for tween tribal, local, and federal jurisdictions, that need to be addressed;
DOJ’s Tribal Access to National Crime Infor- particularly with regard to criminal justice Whereas, the tribes implementing VAWA
mation Program and ensure that TAP is information sharing. These reforms are des- 2013 report that children have been involved
available to all tribes; perately needed and will make a real dif- as victims or witnesses in their cases nearly
SSpencer on DSK126QN23PROD with HOUSE
(3) improve the response to cases of miss- ference for victims of crime in Indian Coun- 60% of the time and federal law prevents
ing and murdered women in tribal commu- try. We look forward to continuing this im- tnbal courts from holding non-Indian offend-
nities; portant work with your offices and thank ers accountable for these crimes;
(4) identify and address the unique barriers you for your commitment to tribal commu- Whereas, according to DOJ, American In-
to safety for Alaska Native women and pro- nities. dian and Alaska Native children suffer expo-
vide access to all programs; and Thank you, sure to violencci at rates higher than any
(5) reauthorize VAWA’s tribal grant pro- FAWN SHARP, other race in the United States, and this vio-
grams and ensure that funding is available President. lence has immediate and long term effects,
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H1430 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 17, 2021
including: increased rates of altered neuro- diminishes tribal inherent authority to de- JWI,
logical development; poor physical and men- fine and address crimes of domestic or dating Washington, DC, March 8, 2021.
tal health; poor school performance; sub- violence, sexual violence, stalking, or traf- Hon. SHEILA JACKSON LEE,
stance abuse; and overrepresentation in the ficking; and House of Representatives,
juvenile justice system; Washington, DC.
Whereas, a 2016 report from the National Be it finally resolved, resolution shall be
Hon. JERROLD NADLER,
Institute for Justice (NIJ) confirmed that the policy of NCAI until it is withdrawn or House of Representatives,
56% of Native omen experience sexual vio- modified by subsequent resolution. Washington, DC.
lence within their lifetime and nearly 1 in 2 CERTIFICATION Hon. BRIAN FITZPATRICK,
report being stalked; House of Representatives,
Whereas, according to NIJ Native victims The foregoing resolution was adopted by Washington, DC.
of sexual violence are three times as likely the Executive Committee at the Executive
DEAR CHAIRWOMAN JACKSON LEE, REP-
to have experienced sexual violence by an Council Winter Session of the National Con-
RESENTATIVE FITZPATRICK, AND CHAIRMAN
interracial perpetrator as non-Hispanic gress of American Indians, held at the Cap-
NADLER: Jewish Women International (JWI),
White victims and Native stalking victims ital Hilton, February 12, 2019, with a quorum
are nearly 4 times as likely to be stalked by the leading Jewish organization working to
present. end gender-based violence, applauds your
someone of a different race, but federal law Attest:
prevents tribal courts from holding non-In- steadfast dedication and leadership in intro-
JUANA MAJEL DIXON,
dian offenders accountable for these crimes; ducing the bipartisan Violence Against
Recording Secretary.
Whereas, VAWA 2005 included. a provision Women Reauthorization Act of 2021 (H.R.
JEFFERSON KEEL,
directing the Attorney General to permit In- 1620).
President.
dian tribes to enter information into and ob- As a Steering Committee member of the
tain information from federal criminal infor- -- National Task Force to End Sexual and Do-
mation databases; LEGAL MOMENTUM—THE WOM-
mestic Violence, convener of the Interfaith
Whereas, in 2015 DOJ announced the Tribal EN’S LEGAL DEFENSE AND EDU-
Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Vio-
Access Program for National Crime Informa- CATION FUND,
New York, March 8, 2021. lence and Clergy Task Force to End Domes-
tion (TAP), which provides eligible tribes tic Abuse in the Jewish Community, and co-
with access to the Criminal Justice Informa- Hon. SHEILA JACKSON LEE,
House of Representatives, chair of Faiths United to Prevent Gun Vio-
tion Services systems; lence, JWI supports this bill that builds on
Whereas, there has never been funding au- Washington, DC.
Hon. BRIAN FITZPATRICK, VAWA’s previous successes and adds key en-
thorized for the TAP program and some
House of Representatives, hancements to ensure the safety of victims
tribes report that they are unable to access
Washington, DC. of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual
the program;
Whereas, on some reservations, American assault, and stalking.
DEAR REPRESENTATIVE JACKSON LEE AND
Indian and Alaska Native women are mur- REPRESENTATIVE FITZPATRICK: Legal Momen- The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)
dered at more than 10 times the national av- tum, the Women’s Legal Defense and Edu- is our nation’s single most effective tool in
erage; cation Fund commends you for introducing responding to the devastating crimes of do-
Whereas, in many cases, law enforcement the Violence Against Women Reauthoriza- mestic violence, dating violence, sexual as-
has failed to adequately respond to cases of tion Act of 2021. Legal Momentum is the na- sault, and stalking—providing lifesaving pro-
missing arid murdered American Indian and tion’s first and longest-serving advocacy or- grams and services. Since its initial passage,
Alaska Native women, leaving family mem- VAWA has dramatically enhanced and im-
ganization dedicated to advancing gender
bers to organize their own searches and com- proved our nation’s response to violence
equality. We make these advancements
munity marches for justice and without ac- against women. VAWA is essential in the
through targeted litigation, innovative pub-
cess to support or services; and funding of programs and services that sur-
Whereas, Alaska Native women experience lic policy, and education. Preventing and re-
sponding to gender-based violence is a core vivors rely on every day. This commonsense
some of the highest rates of violence in the legislation protects victims and survivors,
country and geographical remoteness, ex- pillar of Legal Momentum’s work, in rec-
ognition of the fact that freedom from vio- helps save lives, and makes our communities
treme weather, the lack of transportation in- safer places to worship, heal, and thrive.
frastructure, and unique jurisdictional com- lence is central to achieving true equality.
plexities present unique challenges to Native Legal Momentum is proud to have been Even with all of the advancements in the
women’s safety; closely involved in developing the landmark last twenty-seven years, there is still a tre-
Whereas, certain tribes subject to restric- bipartisan legislation that became the Vio- mendous amount of work that remains. One
tive settlement acts have not been able to lence Against Women Act (VAWA) of 1994. third of all women (nearly 52 million women)
implement the tribal jurisdiction provision Our organization played a critical role in in the United States have been victims of
of VAWA 2013. drafting and advocating for VAWA’s passage, physical violence by an intimate partner. In
Now therefore be it resolved, that NCAI beginning this effort with then-Senator Joe 2016 alone, there were 1.1 million domestic
calls on Congress to move swiftly to pass a Biden in 1990. We have since worked in coali- violence victimizations, 54% of which in-
long-term reauthorization of VAWA that tion with the National Task Force to End volved domestic partners. The Department of
will: Sexual and Domestic Violence to see en- Justice’s Criminal Victimization 2016 Bul-
Include provisions like those included in letin found that more than 10% of all violent
hanced services and protections included in
the Native Youth and Tribal Officer Protec- crime is due to intimate partner violence.
each.reauthorization of VAWA, each of
tion Act and Justice. for Native Survivors of
which had bipartisan support. Legal Momen- The Violence Against Women Reauthoriza-
Sexual Violence Act that amend 25 USC 1304
tum is grateful to you for your dedication to tion Act of 2021 responds to the urgent issues
to address jurisdictional gaps including:
reauthorizing VAWA-in a way that responds survivors face every day by supporting pro-
child abuse and endangerment; assaults
against law enforcement officers; sexual vio- to the needs of all those affected by gender- gramming to prevent gender-based violence,
lence; stalking; trafficking; and the exclu- based violence. closing Tribal and firearms loopholes to pro-
sion of certain tribes from the law; The updates to the existing Violence tect all survivors, strengthening public hous-
Create a perment authorization for DOJ’s Against Women Act that are included in ing protections for survivors, expanding the
Tribal Access to National Crime Information your bill reflect the real needs of victims and ability of providers to respond to sexual har-
Program and ensure that TAP is available to survivors of domestic violence, dating vio- assment, and prioritizing support for Com-
all tribes; lence, sexual assault, and stalking. In par- munities of Color.
Improve the response to and classification ticular, we are pleased that this reauthoriza- JWI and our 75,000 members and supporters
of incidents of missing and murdered Indian tion of VAWA meets the needs of commu- greatly appreciate your dedication and lead-
women consistent with NCAI Resolution nities of color. We applaud your commit- ership in advancing the critical mission of
PHX–16–077; ment to pass a bipartisan reauthorization of passing a targeted bill that will have a broad
Identify and address the unique barriers to this critical legislation. We support intro- impact on all survivors. Congress now has an
safety for Alaska Native women, based upon ducing the Violence Against Women Reau- opportunity to come together and pass
meaningful findings, and provide access to thorization Act of 2021 and hope that your meaningful legislation to help save the lives
all programs; and
SSpencer on DSK126QN23PROD with HOUSE
colleagues across the political spectrum will of victims of gender-based violence—we are
Reauthorize VAWA’s tribal grant programs
recognize the importance of these enhance- grateful that you are spearheading this ef-
and ensure that funding is available to cover
ments and join in supporting it. fort.
costs incurred by tribes who are exercising
jurisdiction pursuant to VAWA; Thank you for your leadership and dedica- Thank you again for being tireless cham-
Be it further resolved, that NCAI will op- tion to protecting victims and survivors. pions of survivors.
pose any VAWA reauthorization bill that un- Sincerely, Sincerely,
dermines tribal sovereignty, unfairly penal- LYNN HECHT SCHAFRAN, Esq., MEREDITH JACOBS,
izes tribes in accessing federal funds, or that Senior Vice President. JWI CEO.
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March 17, 2021 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1431
CASA DE ESPERANZA, The Violence Against Women Act is land- There are countless stories like this through-
March 8, 2021. mark legislation first enacted in 1994 and out this country, which is why it is imperative
Hon. JERROLD NADLER, signed into law by President Bill Clinton which to reauthorize VAWA by passing H.R. 1620.
Hon. SHEILA JACKSON LEE,
has—through policy reforms, interstate co- The stories of these women remind us of
Hon. BRIAN FITZPATRICK,
House of Representatives, operation and grant allocation—been pivotal in the urgency to protect survivors now, before it
Washington, DC. providing a national response to protecting is too late, because many of these deaths are
DEAR REPRESENTATIVES NADLER, JACKSON half of the population. preventable.
LEE AND FITZPATRICK: I am writing on behalf Equally important, it has ushered in a seis- Since VAWA’s codification in 1994, more
of Casa de Esperanza: National Latin@ Net- mic transformation on how society perceives victims report episodes of domestic violence to
work for Healthy Families and Communities violence against women. the police and the rate of non-fatal intimate
to convey our support of the Violence
VAWA was enacted in response to the prev- partner violence against women has de-
Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2021
(VAWA Reauthorization, H.R. 1620). We alence of domestic and sexual violence, and creased by almost two-thirds.
greatly appreciate your leadership and effort the significant impact of such violence on the VAWA has also led to a significant increase
to fulfil the promise of the landmark Vio- lives of women. in the reporting of sexual assault.
lence Against Women Act of 1994. I remember those days well because I was From 1994 to 2015, the rate of women mur-
Casa de Esperanza was founded in 1982 in serving on the board of the Houston Area dered by men in single victim/single offender
Minnesota to provide emergency shelter and Women’s Center (HAWC), at that time the incidents dropped 29 percent.
support services for women and children ex- In the first 15 years of VAWA’s validity,
sole shelter in the Houston area offering sanc-
periencing domestic violence. In 2009, Casa
de Esperanza launched the National Latin@ tuary to victims and women at risk of domestic rates of serious intimate partner violence de-
Network for Healthy Families and Commu- violence. clined by 72 percent for women and 64 per-
nities, which is a national resource center Despite its import, VAWA has been expired cent for men.
that provides training & technical assist- since September 30, 2018, and we as a body Research suggests that referring a victim to
ance, research, and policy advocacy on ad- are now called upon by survivors to reauthor- a domestic violence or sexual assault advo-
dressing and preventing gender-based vio- ize it. cate has been linked to an increased willing-
lence in Latin@ communities. Through offer- VAWA has a proven success record—in the ness to file a police report—survivors with an
ing direct services in Minnesota and nation-
wide advocacy, we are very aware of the crit-
quarter-century since it passed, domestic vio- advocate filed a report with law enforcement
ical role that VAWA has played in enhancing lence has decreased by approximately two- 59 percent of the time, versus 41 percent for
access to services, safety, and justice for all thirds, and intimate partner homicides de- individuals not referred to a victim advocate.
survivors. creased by approximately one-third. Prior to VAWA, law enforcement lacked the
VAWA Reauthorization is a necessary part However, despite these gains, domestic vio- resources and tools to respond effectively to
of our nation’s commitment to ending gen- lence and sexual assault cases I have rapidly domestic violence and sexual assault, and this
der-based violence. It includes narrowly fo- increased during this COVID–19 crisis, where progress cannot be allowed to stop.
cused, yet critical, enhancements to address
gaps identified by survivors and direct serv-
perpetrators are spending significant amount Congress must continue sending the clear
ice providers. Among many provisions, the of time at home with their victims. message that violence against women is un-
measure maintains vital protections for all This landmark, transformative legislation is acceptable.
survivors, invests in prevention, improves needed now more than ever. VAWA has been reauthorized three times—
access to safe housing and economic inde- Police departments around the country have in 2000, 2005, and 2013—with strong bipar-
pendence, and includes long overdue funding reported increases in domestic violence: 18 tisan approval and overwhelming support from
for culturally specific communities. percent increase in San Antonio; 22 percent Congress, states, and local communities.
Since the enactment of VAWA in 1994 and
during each subsequent reauthorization of
increase in Portland, Oregon; 10 percent in- Each reauthorization of VAWA has im-
VAWA in 2000, 2005, and 2013, Congress has crease in New York City. proved protections for women and men, while
continued to support and improve protec- A recent meta-analysis of 18 different stud- helping to change the culture and reduce the
tions for survivors in a bipartisan manner. ies concerning domestic violence during the tolerance for these crimes.
During this time in which we are experi- pandemic found that domestic violence cases H.R. 1620 continues that tradition, and
encing the dual crises of the Coronavirus and have increased an average of over 8 percent therefore, is intended to make modifications,
gender-based violence, we are reminded of across the country. as Congress has done in the past to all pre-
the fragility of life. It is not now or ever ac-
In the United States, an estimated 10 million vious reauthorizations of VAWA.
ceptable to merely maintain the status quo,
let alone undermine current protections and people experience domestic violence every H.R. 1620 is a bipartisan bill, reflecting a
reduce access to safety and justice for vic- year, and more than 15 million children are reasonable and compromise approach to re-
tims and survivors, particularly those from exposed to this violence annually. authorize grant programs under the Violence
vulnerable communities which also have According to the National Coalition Against Against Women Act (VAWA).
been more deeply impacted by the COVID–19 Domestic Violence, about 20 people per These moderate enhancements will address
pandemic. minute are physically abused by an intimate the many growing and unmet needs of victims
In addition to ensuring important path-
partner. and survivors of domestic violence, dating vio-
ways to safety, justice, and well-being for all
survivors, H.R. 1620 includes important en- About 1 in 4 women and 1 in 9 men experi- lence, sexual assault, and stalking.
hancements that improve access to interven- ence severe intimate partner physical vio- H.R. 1620 addresses the needs of sex traf-
tion and prevention services. We are enthusi- lence, sexual violence, and/or partner stalking ficking victims while creating a demonstration
astic about the funding for legal and housing with injury. program on trauma-informed training for law
services that are life-saving resources for Today, in Texas, 35.10 percent of women enforcement.
survivors of domestic and sexual violence. and 34.5 percent of men are subjected to do- H.R. 1620 increases access to grant pro-
We are also very encouraged by the funds mestic violence. grams for culturally specific organizations and
provided for culturally specific programs in
H.R. 1620.
We cannot forget the victims of domestic vi- ensure culturally specific organizations are in-
We appreciate your commitment to mov- olence like Yashica Fontenot, who was mur- cluded in the development and implementation
ing this bill forward with bipartisan support dered in Harris County, Texas, by her hus- of service, education, training, and other
and continue the longstanding commitment band just one day after Christmas last year grants.
of Congress to support enhanced services and while she was trying to escape her relation- H.R. 1620 adds a purpose area to assist
protections in each reauthorization of ship. communities in developing alternatives to
VAWA. Thank you for being a champion on Nor can we forget Debra Seidenfaden, who housing ordinances that punish survivors for
behalf of all victims and survivors and for
your commitment to improving the well-
was murdered by her husband in Houston seeking law enforcement intervention.
being of individuals, families, and commu- after an argument. H.R. 1620 expands protections for vulner-
nities. Nor can we forget the Houston woman who able populations such as youth, survivors with-
SSpencer on DSK126QN23PROD with HOUSE
Sincerely, was tied up and sexually assaulted in her own out shelter, Native American women, and
PATRICIA J. TOTOTZINTLE, home just last week; or the Houston woman LGBTQ persons.
CEO. who was shot multiple times by her husband H.R. 1620 ensures Deaf people are in-
Ms. JACKSON LEE. Madam Speaker, I rise at a medical office this month; or the Houston cluded in grants relating to people with disabil-
in support of H.R. 1620, the ‘‘Violence Against mother and grandmother who was murdered ities.
Women Act of 2021,’’ that will reauthorize the by her son-in law while she attempted to pro- VAWA is central to our nation’s effort to
Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) of 1994. tect her daughter and grandchildren. fight the epidemic of domestic, sexual, and
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H1432 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 17, 2021
dating violence and stalking, and we as a the bill (H.R. 1620) to reauthorize the TITLE V—STRENGTHENING THE
body are now called upon by survivors to re- Violence Against Women Act of 1994, HEALTHCARE SYSTEMS RESPONSE
authorize it. and for other purposes, and ask for its Sec. 501. Grants to strengthen the healthcare
It is important to note that H.R. 1620 did not immediate consideration. systems response to domestic vio-
happen on its own. The Clerk read the title of the bill. lence, dating violence, sexual as-
It was the product of a collaborative effort of The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- sault, and stalking.
stakeholders, including victim advocates. ant to House Resolution 233, an amend- TITLE VI—SAFE HOMES FOR VICTIMS
It was the product of those willing to share ment in the nature of a substitute con- Sec. 601. Housing protections for victims of do-
their stories of the abuse suffered at the mestic violence, dating violence,
sisting of the text of Rules Committee
hands of those who were entrusted to love, sexual assault, and stalking.
Print 117–3, modified by the amend- Sec. 602. Ensuring compliance and implementa-
but instead harmed. ment printed in part A of House Report tion; prohibiting retaliation
The courage, strength, and resilience dis- 117–12, is adopted, and the bill, as against victims.
played by survivors has reminded all that we amended, is considered read. Sec. 603. Protecting the right to report crime
must continue to foster an environment for vic- The text of the bill, as amended, is as from one’s home.
tims of violence to come forward and expose follows: Sec. 604. Transitional housing assistance grants
episodes of violence against women. for victims of domestic violence,
H.R. 1620
Having listened to concerned stakeholders dating violence, sexual assault, or
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- stalking.
from all pockets of the country, we have put
resentatives of the United States of America in Sec. 605. Addressing the housing needs of vic-
pen to paper and produced a bill that is en- Congress assembled,
dorsed by the bipartisan National Task Force tims of domestic violence, dating
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS. violence, sexual assault, and
to End Sexual and Domestic Violence (NTF), (a) SHORT TITLE.—This Act may be cited as stalking.
which is a national collaboration comprising a the ‘‘Violence Against Women Act Reauthoriza- Sec. 606. United States Housing Act of 1937
large and diverse group of 35 national, tribal, tion Act of 2021’’. amendments.
state, territorial, and local organizations, advo- (b) TABLE OF CONTENTS.—The table of con- TITLE VII—ECONOMIC SECURITY FOR
cates, and individuals that focus on the devel- tents for this Act is as follows: VICTIMS
opment, passage and implementation of effec- Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents. Sec. 701. Findings.
tive public policy to address domestic vio- Sec. 2. Universal definitions and grant condi- Sec. 702. National Resource Center on work-
lence, dating violence, sexual assault, and tions. place responses to assist victims of
Sec. 3. Agency and Department Coordination. domestic and sexual violence.
stalking. Sec. 4. Effective date.
This bill recognizes the urgency and dire Sec. 703. Provisions related to Unemployment
Sec. 5. Availability of funds.
need faced by the victims and survivors Compensation and the Temporary
Sec. 6. Sense of Congress.
throughout this country during a significant Assistance for Needy Families
TITLE I—ENHANCING LEGAL TOOLS TO Program.
moment of ongoing domestic violence caused COMBAT DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, DATING Sec. 704. Study and reports on barriers to sur-
by this pandemic and experienced by both VIOLENCE, SEXUAL ASSAULT, AND vivors’ economic security access.
women and men. STALKING Sec. 705. GAO Study.
The love for a spouse, the comfort of a Sec. 101. Stop grants. Sec. 706. Education and information programs
mother and the best wishes for a sister know Sec. 102. Grants to encourage improvements for survivors.
no political allegiance. and alternatives to the criminal Sec. 707. Severability.
I am determined to work with my colleagues justice response. TITLE VIII—HOMICIDE REDUCTION
and others to complete the mission I accepted Sec. 103. Legal assistance for victims. INITIATIVES
Sec. 104. Grants to support families in the jus-
in the 115th Congress when the House Sec. 801. Prohibiting persons convicted of mis-
tice system.
passed the VAWA legislation I authored, H.R. demeanor crimes against dating
Sec. 105. Outreach and services to underserved
1585, the Violence Against Women Reauthor- partners and persons subject to
populations grants.
ization Act of 2018, all the way this time Sec. 106. Criminal provisions. protection orders.
Sec. 107. Rape survivor child custody. Sec. 802. Prohibiting stalkers and individuals
through passage by the Senate and to pre- subject to court order from pos-
sentment for signature to President Biden, a Sec. 108. Enhancing culturally specific services
for victims of domestic violence, sessing a firearm.
strong supporter of the bill and the original TITLE IX—SAFETY FOR INDIAN WOMEN
dating violence, sexual assault,
creator of VAWA. and stalking. Sec. 901. Findings and purposes.
The SPEAKER pro tempore (Ms. Sec. 109. Grants for lethality assessment pro- Sec. 902. Authorizing funding for the Tribal ac-
SPANBERGER). All time for debate has grams. cess program.
expired. TITLE II—IMPROVING SERVICES FOR Sec. 903. Tribal jurisdiction over covered crimes
Pursuant to Resolution 233, the pre- VICTIMS of domestic violence, dating vio-
vious question is ordered. Sec. 201. Sexual assault services program.
lence, obstruction of justice, sex-
The question is on the engrossment Sec. 202. Sexual Assault Services Program. ual violence, sex trafficking,
and third reading of the joint resolu- Sec. 203. Rural domestic violence, dating vio- stalking, and assault of a law en-
tion. lence, sexual assault, stalking, forcement officer or corrections of-
The joint resolution was ordered to and child abuse enforcement as- ficer.
be engrossed and read a third time, and sistance program. TITLE X—OFFICE ON VIOLENCE AGAINST
was read the third time. Sec. 204. Grants for training and services to end WOMEN
The SPEAKER pro tempore. The violence against people with dis- Sec. 1001. Establishment of Office on Violence
question is on the passage of the joint abilities and Deaf people. Against Women.
Sec. 205. Training and services to end abuse in Sec. 1002. Office on Violence Against Women a
resolution. later life. Deputy Director for Culturally
The question was taken, and the Sec. 206. Demonstration program on trauma-in- Specific Communities.
Speaker pro tempore announced that formed, victim-centered training TITLE XI—IMPROVING CONDITIONS FOR
the ayes appeared to have it. for law enforcement. WOMEN IN FEDERAL CUSTODY
Mrs. FISCHBACH. Madam Speaker, TITLE III—SERVICES, PROTECTION, AND Sec. 1101. Improving the treatment of primary
on that I demand the yeas and nays. JUSTICE FOR YOUNG VICTIMS caretaker parents and other indi-
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Sec. 301. Rape prevention and education grant. viduals in federal prisons.
ant to section 3(s) of House Resolution Sec. 302. Creating hope through outreach, op- Sec. 1102. Public health and safety of women.
8, the yeas and nays are ordered. tions, services, and education Sec. 1103. Research and report on women in
Pursuant to clause 8 of rule XX, fur- (CHOOSE) for children and federal incarceration.
ther proceedings on this question are youth. Sec. 1104. Reentry planning and services for in-
postponed. Sec. 303. Grants to combat violent crimes on carcerated women.
SSpencer on DSK126QN23PROD with HOUSE
campuses. TITLE XII—LAW ENFORCEMENT TOOLS TO
f
TITLE IV—VIOLENCE REDUCTION ENHANCE PUBLIC SAFETY
b 1130 PRACTICES Sec. 1201. Notification to law enforcement agen-
VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN Sec. 401. Study conducted by the Centers for cies of prohibited purchase or at-
REAUTHORIZATION ACT OF 2021 Disease Control and Prevention. tempted purchase of a firearm.
Sec. 402. Saving Money and Reducing Trage- Sec. 1202. Reporting of background check deni-
Mr. NADLER. Madam Speaker, pur- dies (SMART) through Prevention als to state, local, and Tribal au-
suant to House Resolution 233, I call up grants. thorities.
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