Contact: Aaron White
Phone: 202-225-5506
Aaron.White@mail.house.gov
Violence Against Women Veterans Act will help domestic violence shelters work with VA to provide care to veterans facing crisis situations
La Crosse, WI – Today, U.S. Rep. Ron Kind cosponsored the bipartisan Violence Against Women Veterans Act, which will streamline communication and collaboration between violence shelters and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical facilities, in order to improve the services available to veterans experiencing domestic violence.
“We need to do everything in our power to ensure women and children in Wisconsin are safe from harm. Opening communication between the VA and community resources for domestic violence survivors will help identify the unique challenges veterans face in crisis situations, and better serve their needs. Every Wisconsinite facing domestic violence should receive the best care possible, wherever they turn for help,” said Rep. Ron Kind.
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides benefits for victims of domestic violence, but currently does not have a collaborative relationship with local domestic violence shelters and crisis centers. The bill would establish a National Task Force on Domestic Violence to gather information on how to best provide comprehensive support to our veterans, and connect local coordinators with nearby VA professionals in order to better provide veterans crisis services.
Veterans who are survivors of domestic violence are potentially eligible for a range of benefits that could help protect victims and families from abusive situations, including housing assistance, medical care, mental health services and peer support.
The Violence Against Women Veterans Act is supported by the American Legion, Disabled American Veterans, AMVETS, Blinded Veterans Association, and the Non-Commissioned Officers Association.
