At a recent hearing focused on the Fiscal Year 2026 budget request for the U.S. Department of Justice, Senator Susan Collins, who chairs the Appropriations Committee, raised concerns about proposed funding cuts to programs under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). These programs are crucial for supporting survivors of domestic and sexual abuse.
Senator Collins has been actively involved in expanding protections for domestic violence survivors through her role as an original co-sponsor of the VAWA Reauthorization Act in 2022. During the hearing, she emphasized the importance of these programs, stating they are essential for reducing violence against women and providing necessary services to victims.
Collins pointed out that the Department’s budget proposal suggests a reduction in funding from approximately $713 million in Fiscal Year 2025 to $505 million in Fiscal Year 2026. This nearly 30 percent cut affects various initiatives including transitional housing assistance and rural victim support.
Attorney General Pam Bondi responded to Senator Collins’ inquiries by acknowledging her own commitment to combating domestic violence. Bondi explained that while the budget is leaner, it still allocates significant funds toward preventing and responding to violence against women. She assured that efforts will continue despite financial constraints.
Both officials agreed on the need for collaboration to address these issues effectively, particularly in underserved rural areas where services are often lacking. Bondi expressed her willingness to work with Senator Collins and others across states to tackle domestic and sexual violence nationwide.
