Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)

Violence Against Women Act (VAWA, 1994; reauthorized 2022)

1) Link to the Text of the Act
Read the statute (34 U.S.C. § 12291 et seq.)

2) Why It Was Done
VAWA was enacted to address domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking, creating comprehensive legal protections, victim services, and funding for law enforcement and prevention programs.

3) Pre-existing Law or Constitutional Rights
Before VAWA, protections for victims of gender-based violence were scattered and inconsistent across states. The Act created the first major federal framework.

Acts

Bipartisan Safer Communities Act

Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (2022)

1) Link to the Text of the Act
Read the statute (Public Law 117–159)

2) Why It Was Done
Passed in the wake of mass shootings in Buffalo, NY, and Uvalde, TX, the Act was designed to enhance background checks, fund mental health and school safety programs, and support state “red flag” laws.

3) Pre-existing Law or Constitutional Rights
The Gun Control Act of 1968 and the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act (1993) created federal gun background check systems. This Act updated and expanded those frameworks without creating sweeping new bans.