Senator Kennedy backs reauthorizing Violence Against Women Act to help victims

Senator John Kennedy is throwing his support behind the reauthorization of an act that has provided resources to help victims of domestic violence and sexual assault.

The Violence Against Women Act, originally enacted in 1994, expired in February.

Kennedy says this bill’s renewal will help combat a slew of issues.

“The issues of stalking, sexual violence, female genital mutilation.”

Kennedy says violence against women is a serious problem, and over the years, the act has helped fund avenues to improve the situation.

“We have provided about eight billion dollars to local law enforcement agencies and courts and social service agencies.”

Kennedy says some of his colleagues are attempting to inject the issue of gun control into the bill, efforts that he is leaning against.

“We want to pass a bill. We’re not trying to make a political statement. This is not meant to be a messaging bill.”