Schiff Attends White House Signing of Violence Against Women Act
Washington, D.C. – Later today, Congressman Adam Schiff will join President Bush in the Oval Office as he signs the Violence Against Women Act and Department of Justice Reauthorization Act into law. The new law will provide additional funding to combat domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking. The law will also provide grants for local police who target crimes against women. Congressman Schiff was an original cosponsor of the Violence Against Women Act.
“As a former prosecutor, I am well aware how women are not only victimized by abuse, but also by faults within our own justice system,” said Congressman Schiff. “The Violence Against Women Act provides protection for women and gives law enforcement more tools to lock-up repeat offenders.”
Several provisions authored by Congressman Schiff were included in the Department of Justice sections of this legislation:
Law Enforcement Tribute Act: Introduced by Congressman Schiff in July 2001 and first enacted in 2002, the bill helps local and state governments honor men and women who were killed or disabled while serving as public safety officers. This bill was inspired by Glendale Police Officer Charles A. Lazzaretto, who was murdered in the line of duty in 1997. Through this program, Glendale received $10,000 to help build a memorial honoring Lazzaretto and four others officers who gave their lives while serving. Communities across the country wishing to honor slain police officers may be able to apply for funds in the future.
G.R.E.A.T.: The Gang Resistance, Education and Training Program, a school-based, law enforcement officer-instructed classroom curriculum that works to prevent delinquency, youth violence and gang membership. The program incorporates over 600 communities in 47 states, with over 1700 officers.
Detainee Reporting Requirement: A measure requiring the Attorney General to regularly report to Congress on the status of U.S. citizens and residents detained by the federal government and what standards the Department of Justice uses to designate someone as an enemy combatant.
Congressman Schiff is a former Assistant U.S. Attorney in Los Angeles and the co-founder of the Democratic Study Group on National Security. He is a member of both the House Judiciary and International Relations committees. He represents California’s 29th Congressional District, which includes the communities of Alhambra, Altadena, Burbank, East Pasadena, East San Gabriel, Glendale, Monterey Park, Pasadena, San Gabriel, South Pasadena and Temple City.
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