The Violence Against Women Act

The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) is a U.S. law enacted in 1994 aimed at supporting and protecting women from domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and dating violence. It provides funding for victim services, legal assistance, and law enforcement training. VAWA also encourages the development of community-based programs and enhances the legal protections for victims, including provisions for better prosecution of offenders. Over the years, it has been reauthorized and expanded to address various forms of violence, emphasizing the importance of prevention and comprehensive support for survivors.