Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) applauded the passage of H.R. 2119, the Family Violence Prevention and Services Improvement Act. This bipartisan bill would reauthorize the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act (FVPSA) which—nearly 40 years after its enactment—continues to be the primary source of federal funding for domestic violence shelters in the US. H.R. 2119 would enhance and refocus federal investment to address intimate partner violence (IPV). The bill passed the House today by a vote of 228-200.

“We have a duty to prevent the scourge of domestic violence and ensure that survivors in Alabama and throughout the country are safe and cared for,” said Rep. Sewell. “That’s why I’m proud to join my colleagues in voting to pass the Family Violence Prevention and Services Improvement Act. At a time when rates of domestic violence are on the rise, ensuring that we fully fund programs to combat domestic violence is paramount!”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about one in four women and nearly one in ten men have reported experiencing some form of IPV during their lifetime. Yet, according to the National Network to End Domestic Violence, in just one day in 2020, domestic violence programs were unable to meet 11,047 requests from survivors of domestic violence for shelter and/or supportive services. This is an increase of almost 2,000 requests (almost 18 percent) in just two years.

FVPSA, which is the central pillar in fighting against IPV, has not been reauthorized since 2010, leaving programs underfunded and outdated. COVID-19 has increased the risk of IPV and disrupted services that offer resources and support. Communities of color, people with disabilities, and LGBTQ+ individuals experience disproportionate rates of IPV but face significant barriers to accessing services.

The Family Violence Prevention and Services Improvement Act is a comprehensive reauthorization of the FVPSA through FY 2026. The bill would require the Department of Health and Human Services to award grants and partner with organizations to support intimate partner violence preventative services. This funding and support for services would include dedicated resources for over-represented and underserved populations that face high rates of intimate partner violence, and ensure services are culturally appropriate and accessible.