SUBCHAPTER II—VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, DATING VIOLENCE, SEXUAL ASSAULT, AND STALKING

§20121. Legal assistance for victims

(a) In general

The purpose of this section is to enable the Attorney General to award grants to increase the availability of civil and criminal legal assistance necessary to provide effective aid to adult and youth victims of domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, or sexual assault who are seeking relief in legal matters relating to or arising out of that abuse or violence, at minimal or no cost to the victims. When legal assistance to a dependent is necessary for the safety of a victim, such assistance may be provided. Criminal legal assistance provided for under this section shall be limited to criminal matters relating to or arising out of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking.

(b) Definitions and grant conditions

In this section, the definitions and grant conditions provided in section 12291 of this title shall apply.

(c) Legal assistance for victims grants

The Attorney General may award grants under this subsection to private nonprofit entities, Indian tribal governments and tribal organizations, territorial organizations, and publicly funded organizations not acting in a governmental capacity such as law schools, and which shall be used—

(1) to implement, expand, and establish cooperative efforts and projects between domestic violence, dating violence, and sexual assault victim service providers and legal assistance providers to provide legal assistance for victims of domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, and sexual assault;

(2) to implement, expand, and establish efforts and projects to provide legal assistance for victims of domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, and sexual assault by organizations with a demonstrated history of providing direct legal or advocacy services on behalf of these victims; and

(3) to implement, expand, and establish efforts and projects to provide competent, supervised pro bono legal assistance for victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking, except that not more than 10 percent of the funds awarded under this section may be used for the purpose described in this paragraph.

(d) Eligibility

To be eligible for a grant under subsection (c), applicants shall certify in writing that—

(1) any person providing legal assistance through a program funded under this section—

(A)(i) is a licensed attorney or is working under the direct supervision of a licensed attorney;

(ii) in immigration proceedings, is a Board of Immigration Appeals accredited representative;

(iii) in Veterans' Administration claims, is an accredited representative; or

(iv) is any person who functions as an attorney or lay advocate in Tribal court; and

(B)(i) has demonstrated expertise in providing legal assistance to victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking in the targeted population; or

(ii)(I) is partnered with an entity or person that has demonstrated expertise described in clause (i); and

(II) has completed, or will complete, training in connection with domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, or sexual assault and related legal issues, including training on evidence-based risk factors for domestic and dating violence homicide;

(2) any training program conducted in satisfaction of the requirement of paragraph (1) has been or will be developed with input from and in collaboration with a tribal, State, territorial, local, or culturally specific domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault or stalking victim service provider or coalition, as well as appropriate tribal, State, territorial, and local law enforcement officials;

(3) any person or organization providing legal assistance through a program funded under subsection (c) has informed and will continue to inform State, local, or tribal domestic violence, dating violence, or sexual assault programs and coalitions, as well as appropriate State and local law enforcement officials of their work; and

(4) the grantee's organizational policies do not require mediation or counseling involving offenders and victims physically together, in cases where sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, or child sexual abuse is an issue.

(e) Evaluation

The Attorney General may evaluate the grants funded under this section through contracts or other arrangements with entities expert on domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, and sexual assault, and on evaluation research.

(f) Authorization of appropriations

(1) In general

There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $60,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2023 through 2027.

(2) Allocation of funds

(A) Tribal programs

Of the amount made available under this subsection in each fiscal year, not less than 3 percent shall be used for grants for programs that assist adult and youth victims of domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, and sexual assault on lands within the jurisdiction of an Indian tribe.

(B) Tribal government program

(i) In general

Not less than 7 percent of the total amount available under this section for each fiscal year shall be available for grants under the program authorized by section 10452 of this title.

(ii) Applicability of part ¹

The requirements of this section shall not apply to funds allocated for the program described in clause (i).

(C) Victims of sexual assault

Of the amount made available under this subsection in each fiscal year, not less than 25 percent shall be used for direct services, training, and technical assistance to support projects focused solely or primarily on providing legal assistance to victims of sexual assault.

(3) Nonsupplantation

Amounts made available under this section shall be used to supplement and not supplant other Federal, State, and local funds expended to further the purpose of this section.

(Pub. L. 106–386, div. B, title II, §1201, Oct. 28, 2000, 114 Stat. 1504; Pub. L. 108–405, title II, §205, Oct. 30, 2004, 118 Stat. 2271; Pub. L. 109–162, title I, §103, title IX, §906(f), formerly §906(g), Jan. 5, 2006, 119 Stat. 2978, 3082, renumbered §906(f), Pub. L. 109–271, §7(b)(2)(B), Aug. 12, 2006, 120 Stat. 764; Pub. L. 109–271, §7(d)(1), Aug. 12, 2006, 120 Stat. 765; Pub. L. 113–4, title I, §103, Mar. 7, 2013, 127 Stat. 73; Pub. L. 117–103, div. W, title I, §103, Mar. 15, 2022, 136 Stat. 850.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The reference to "part" in subsec. (f)(2)(B)(ii) heading, appearing in the original, is unidentifiable because title II of div. B of Pub. L. 106–386 does not contain parts.

Codification

Section was formerly classified to section 3796gg–6 of Title 42, The Public Health and Welfare, prior to editorial reclassification and renumbering as this section. Some section numbers or references in amendment notes below reflect the classification of such sections or references prior to editorial reclassification.

Amendments

2022—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 117–103, §103(1), inserted "When legal assistance to a dependent is necessary for the safety of a victim, such assistance may be provided." after "no cost to the victims."

Subsec. (d)(1). Pub. L. 117–103, §103(2)(A), amended par. (1) generally. Prior to amendment, par. (1) related to any person providing legal assistance through a program funded under subsection (c) of this section.

Subsec. (d)(2). Pub. L. 117–103, §103(2)(B), substituted "local, or culturally specific" for "or local".

Subsec. (d)(4). Pub. L. 117–103, §103(2)(C), inserted "stalking," after "dating violence,".

Subsec. (f)(1). Pub. L. 117–103, §103(3), substituted "$60,000,000" for "$57,000,000" and "2023 through 2027" for "2014 through 2018".

2013—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 113–4, §103(1), substituted "relating to or arising out of" for "arising as a consequence of" and inserted "or arising out of" after "criminal matters relating to".

Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 113–4, §103(2), inserted "and grant conditions" after "Definitions" in heading and after "definitions" in text.

Subsec. (c)(1). Pub. L. 113–4, §103(3)(A), which directed the substitution of "victim service providers" for "victims services organizations", was executed by making the substitution for "victim services organizations" to reflect the probable intent of Congress.

Subsec. (c)(3). Pub. L. 113–4, §103(3)(B), added par. (3) and struck out former par. (3) which read as follows: "to provide training, technical assistance, and data collection to improve the capacity of grantees and other entities to offer legal assistance to victims of domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, and sexual assault."

Subsec. (d)(1). Pub. L. 113–4, §103(4)(A), which directed substitution of "this section—" and subpars. (A) and (B) for "this section has completed or will complete training in connection with domestic violence, dating violence, or sexual assault and related legal issues;", was executed by making the substitution for "has completed or will complete training in connection with domestic violence, dating violence, or sexual assault and related legal issues;" to reflect the probable intent of Congress because "this section" did not appear in text prior to the amendment.

Subsec. (d)(2). Pub. L. 113–4, §103(4)(B), substituted "stalking victim service provider" for "stalking organization".

Subsec. (f)(1). Pub. L. 113–4, §103(5), substituted "this section $57,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2014 through 2018." for "this section $65,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2007 through 2011."

2006—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 109–162, §103(1), inserted "civil and criminal" after "availability of", "adult and youth" after "effective aid to", and "Criminal legal assistance provided for under this section shall be limited to criminal matters relating to domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking." at end.

Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 109–162, §103(2), reenacted subsec. heading without change and amended text generally. Prior to amendment, text defined for purposes of this section the terms "dating violence", "domestic violence", "legal assistance", and "sexual assault".

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 109–162, §103(3), inserted "and tribal organizations, territorial organizations" after "Indian tribal governments" in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (d)(2). Pub. L. 109–162, §103(4), added par. (2) and struck out former par. (2) which read as follows: "any training program conducted in satisfaction of the requirement of paragraph (1) has been or will be developed with input from and in collaboration with a State, local, or tribal domestic violence, dating violence, or sexual assault program or coalition, as well as appropriate State and local law enforcement officials;".

Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 109–162, §103(5), which directed amendment identical to that made by Pub. L. 108–405, §205(5), was not executed. See 2004 Amendment note below.

Subsec. (f)(1). Pub. L. 109–162, §103(6)(A), added par. (1) and struck out former par. (1). Former text read as follows: "There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $40,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2001 through 2005."

Subsec. (f)(2)(A). Pub. L. 109–271, §7(d)(1)(A)(i), substituted "3 percent" for "10 percent".

Pub. L. 109–162, §103(6)(B), substituted "10 percent" for "5 percent" and inserted "adult and youth" after "that assist".

Subsec. (f)(2)(B), (C). Pub. L. 109–271, §7(d)(1)(A)(ii), (iii), added subpar. (B) and redesignated former subpar. (B) as (C).

Subsec. (f)(4). Pub. L. 109–271, §7(d)(1)(B), struck out par. (4) which read as follows: "Not less than 10 percent of the total amount available under this section for each fiscal year shall be available for grants under the program authorized in section 3796gg–10 of this title. The requirements of this paragraph shall not apply to funds allocated for such program."

Pub. L. 109–162, §906(f), formerly §906(g), as renumbered by Pub. L. 109–271, §7(b)(2)(B), added par. (4).

2004—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 108–405, §205(1), inserted "dating violence," after "domestic violence,".

Subsec. (b)(1) to (4). Pub. L. 108–405, §205(2), added par. (1), redesignated former pars. (1) to (3) as (2) to (4), respectively, and inserted "dating violence," after "domestic violence," in par. (3).

Subsec. (c)(1). Pub. L. 108–405, §205(3)(A), inserted ", dating violence," after "between domestic violence" and "dating violence," after "victims of domestic violence,".

Subsec. (c)(2), (3). Pub. L. 108–405, §205(3)(B), (C), inserted "dating violence," after "domestic violence,".

Subsec. (d)(1) to (3). Pub. L. 108–405, §205(4)(A)–(C), inserted ", dating violence," after "domestic violence".

Subsec. (d)(4). Pub. L. 108–405, §205(4)(D), inserted "dating violence," after "domestic violence,".

Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 108–405, §205(5), inserted "dating violence," after "domestic violence,".

Subsec. (f)(2)(A). Pub. L. 108–405, §205(6), inserted "dating violence," after "domestic violence,".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2022 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 117–103 not effective until Oct. 1 of the first fiscal year beginning after Mar. 15, 2022, see section 4(a) of div. W of Pub. L. 117–103, set out as an Effective Date note under section 6851 of Title 15, Commerce and Trade.

Effective Date of 2013 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 113–4 not effective until the beginning of the fiscal year following Mar. 7, 2013, see section 4 of Pub. L. 113–4, set out as a note under section 2261 of Title 18, Crimes and Criminal Procedure.

Effective Date of 2006 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 109–162 not effective until the beginning of fiscal year 2007, see section 4 of Pub. L. 109–162, set out as a note under section 10261 of this title.

¹ See References in Text note below.

§20122. Education, training, and enhanced services to end violence against and abuse of individuals with disabilities and Deaf people

(a) In general

The Attorney General, in consultation with the Secretary of Health and Human Services, may award grants to eligible entities—

(1) to provide training, consultation, and information on domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, sexual assault, and abuse by caregivers against individuals with disabilities (as defined in section 3 of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12102)) and Deaf people; and

(2) to enhance direct services to such individuals.

(b) Use of funds

Grants awarded under this section shall be used—

(1) to provide personnel, training, technical assistance, advocacy, intervention, risk reduction (including using evidence-based indicators to assess the risk of domestic and dating violence homicide) and prevention of domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, and sexual assault against individuals with disabilities and Deaf people;

(2) to conduct outreach activities to ensure that individuals with disabilities and Deaf people who are victims of domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, or sexual assault receive appropriate assistance;

(3) to conduct cross-training for victim service organizations, governmental agencies, courts, law enforcement and other first responders, and nonprofit, nongovernmental organizations serving individuals with disabilities about risk reduction, intervention, prevention and the nature of domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, and sexual assault for individuals with disabilities and Deaf people;

(4) to provide technical assistance to assist with modifications to existing policies, protocols, and procedures to ensure equal access to the services, programs, and activities of victim service providers for individuals with disabilities and Deaf people;

(5) to provide training and technical assistance on the requirements of shelters and victim service providers under Federal antidiscrimination laws, including—

(A) the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 [42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq.]; and

(B) section 794 of title 29;

(6) to modify facilities, purchase equipment, and provide personnel so that shelters and victim service organizations can accommodate the needs of individuals with disabilities and Deaf people;

(7) to provide advocacy and intervention services for individuals with disabilities and Deaf people who are victims of domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, or sexual assault; or

(8) to develop model programs to enhance the capacity of organizations serving individuals with disabilities and Deaf people who are victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking.

(c) Eligible entities

(1) In general

An entity shall be eligible to receive a grant under this section if the entity is—

(A) a State;

(B) a unit of local government;

(C) an Indian tribal government or tribal organization; or

(D) a victim service provider, such as a State or tribal domestic violence or sexual assault coalition or a nonprofit, nongovernmental organization serving individuals with disabilities and Deaf people.

(2) Limitation

A grant awarded for the purpose described in subsection (b)(8) shall only be awarded to an eligible agency (as defined in section 796f–5 ¹ of title 29).

(d) Underserved populations

In awarding grants under this section, the Director shall ensure that the needs of underserved populations are being addressed.

(e) Authorization of appropriations

There are authorized to be appropriated $15,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2023 through 2027 to carry out this section.

(Pub. L. 106–386, div. B, title IV, §1402, Oct. 28, 2000, 114 Stat. 1513; Pub. L. 109–162, title II, §204(a), Jan. 5, 2006, 119 Stat. 3000; Pub. L. 113–4, title II, §203, Mar. 7, 2013, 127 Stat. 82; Pub. L. 117–103, div. W, title II, §203, Mar. 15, 2022, 136 Stat. 857.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, referred to in subsec. (b)(5)(A), is Pub. L. 101–336, July 26, 1990, 104 Stat. 327, which is classified principally to chapter 126 (§12101 et seq.) of Title 42, The Public Health and Welfare. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 12101 of Title 42 and Tables.

Section 796f–5 of title 29, referred to in subsec. (c)(2), was in the original "section 410 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 796f–5)" and was translated as meaning section 726 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, to reflect the probable intent of Congress.

Codification

Section was formerly classified to section 3796gg–7 of Title 42, The Public Health and Welfare, prior to editorial reclassification and renumbering as this section.

Amendments

2022—Pub. L. 117–103, §203(1), substituted "individuals with disabilities and Deaf people" for "women with disabilities" in section catchline.

Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 117–103, §203(2), substituted "sexual assault, and abuse by caregivers" for "and sexual assault" and inserted "and Deaf people" after "with disabilities (as defined in section 3 of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12102))".

Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 117–103, §203(3)(A), substituted "individuals with disabilities and Deaf people" for "disabled individuals" wherever appearing.

Subsec. (b)(3). Pub. L. 117–103, §203(3)(B), inserted "and other first responders" after "law enforcement".

Subsec. (b)(8). Pub. L. 117–103, §203(3)(C), substituted "to enhance the capacity of" for "providing advocacy and intervention services within".

Subsec. (c)(1)(D). Pub. L. 117–103, §203(4), substituted "individuals with disabilities and Deaf people" for "disabled individuals".

Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 117–103, §203(5), substituted "$15,000,000" for "$9,000,000" and "2023 through 2027" for "2014 through 2018".

2013—Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 113–4, §203(1)(A), inserted "(including using evidence-based indicators to assess the risk of domestic and dating violence homicide)" after "risk reduction".

Subsec. (b)(4). Pub. L. 113–4, §203(1)(B), substituted "victim service providers" for "victim service organizations".

Subsec. (b)(5). Pub. L. 113–4, §203(1)(C), substituted "victim service providers" for "victim services organizations" in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (c)(1)(D). Pub. L. 113–4, §203(2), substituted "victim service provider, such as a State or tribal" for "nonprofit and nongovernmental victim services organization, such as a State".

Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 113–4, §203(3), substituted "$9,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2014 through 2018" for "$10,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 2007 through 2011".

2006—Pub. L. 109–162 substituted "Education, training, and enhanced services to end violence against and abuse of women with disabilities" for "Education and training to end violence against and abuse of women with disabilities" in section catchline and amended text generally. Prior to amendment, text consisted of subsecs. (a) to (d) relating to award of grants to provide education and technical assistance for the purpose of providing training, consultation, and information on domestic violence, stalking, and sexual assault against women who are individuals with disabilities and authorized appropriations for fiscal years 2001 through 2005.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2022 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 117–103 not effective until Oct. 1 of the first fiscal year beginning after Mar. 15, 2022, see section 4(a) of div. W of Pub. L. 117–103, set out as an Effective Date note under section 6851 of Title 15, Commerce and Trade.

Effective Date of 2013 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 113–4 not effective until the beginning of the fiscal year following Mar. 7, 2013, see section 4 of Pub. L. 113–4, set out as a note under section 2261 of Title 18, Crimes and Criminal Procedure.

Effective Date of 2006 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 109–162 not effective until the beginning of fiscal year 2007, see section 4 of Pub. L. 109–162, set out as a note under section 10261 of this title.

Definitions

For definitions of terms used in this section, see section 1002 of Pub. L. 106–386, set out as a note under section 10447 of this title.

¹ See References in Text note below.

§20123. Grants for outreach and services to underserved populations

(a) Grants authorized

(1) In general

Of the amounts appropriated under the grant programs identified in paragraph (2), the Attorney General shall take 2 percent of such appropriated amounts and combine them to award grants to eligible entities described in subsection (b) of this section to develop and implement outreach strategies targeted at adult or youth victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking in underserved populations and to provide victim services to meet the needs of adult and youth victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking in underserved populations. The requirements of the grant programs identified in paragraph (2) shall not apply to this grant program.

(2) Programs covered

The programs covered by paragraph (1) are the programs carried out under the following provisions:

(A) Section 10441 of this title (Grants to Combat Violent Crimes Against Women).

(B) Section 10461 of this title (Grants to Encourage Arrest Policies and Enforcement of Protection Orders Program).

(b) Eligible entities

Eligible entities under this section are—

(1) population specific organizations that have demonstrated experience and expertise in providing population specific services in the relevant underserved communities, or population specific organizations working in partnership with a victim service provider or domestic violence or sexual assault coalition;

(2) victim service providers offering population specific services for a specific underserved population; or

(3) victim service providers working in partnership with a national, State, tribal, Native Hawaiian, or local organization that has demonstrated experience and expertise in providing population specific services in the relevant underserved population.

(c) Planning grants

The Attorney General may use up to 25 percent of funds available under this section to make one-time planning grants to eligible entities to support the planning and development of specially designed and targeted programs for adult and youth victims in one or more underserved populations, including—

(1) identifying, building and strengthening partnerships with potential collaborators within underserved populations, Federal, State, tribal, territorial or local government entities, and public and private organizations;

(2) conducting a needs assessment of the community and the targeted underserved population or populations to determine what the barriers are to service access and what factors contribute to those barriers, using input from the targeted underserved population or populations;

(3) identifying promising prevention, outreach and intervention strategies for victims from a targeted underserved population or populations; and

(4) developing a plan, with the input of the targeted underserved population or populations, for implementing prevention, outreach and intervention strategies to address the barriers to accessing services, promoting community engagement in the prevention of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking within the targeted underserved populations, and evaluating the program.

(d) Implementation grants

The Attorney General shall make grants to eligible entities for the purpose of providing or enhancing population specific outreach and services to adult and youth victims in one or more underserved populations, including—

(1) working with Federal, State, tribal, territorial and local governments, agencies, and organizations to develop or enhance population specific services;

(2) strengthening the capacity of underserved populations to provide population specific services;

(3) strengthening the capacity of traditional victim service providers to provide population specific services;

(4) strengthening the response of criminal and civil justice interventions by providing population-specific training for law enforcement, prosecutors, judges and other court personnel on domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking in underserved populations;

(5) working in cooperation with an underserved population to develop and implement outreach, education, prevention, and intervention strategies that highlight available resources and the specific issues faced by victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking from underserved populations;

(6) developing, enlarging, or strengthening culturally specific programs and projects to provide culturally specific services regarding responses to, and prevention of, female genital mutilation and cutting; or

(7) strengthening the response of social and human services by providing population-specific training for service providers on domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking in underserved populations.

(e) Application

An eligible entity desiring a grant under this section shall submit an application to the Director of the Office on Violence Against Women at such time, in such form, and in such manner as the Director may prescribe.

(f) Reports

Each eligible entity receiving a grant under this section shall submit to the Director of the Office on Violence Against Women a report that describes the activities carried out with grant funds.

(g) Authorization of appropriations

In addition to the funds identified in subsection (a)(1), there are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $6,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2023 through 2027.

(h) Definitions and grant conditions

In this section the definitions and grant conditions in section 12291 of this title shall apply.

(Pub. L. 109–162, title I, §120, Jan. 5, 2006, 119 Stat. 2990; Pub. L. 109–271, §§1(c)(2), 2(h), Aug. 12, 2006, 120 Stat. 750, 752; Pub. L. 113–4, title I, §108, Mar. 7, 2013, 127 Stat. 78; Pub. L. 117–103, div. W, title I, §105, Mar. 15, 2022, 136 Stat. 851.)

Editorial Notes

Codification

Section was formerly classified to section 14045 of Title 42, The Public Health and Welfare, prior to editorial reclassification and renumbering as this section.

Amendments

2022—Subsec. (b)(3). Pub. L. 117–103, §105(1), inserted "Native Hawaiian," before "or local organization".

Subsec. (d)(4). Pub. L. 117–103, §105(2)(A)(i), (ii), substituted "response" for "effectiveness" and inserted "population-specific" before "training".

Subsec. (d)(6), (7). Pub. L. 117–103, §105(2)(A)(iii), (B), (C), added pars. (6) and (7).

Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 117–103, §105(3), substituted "$6,000,000" for "$2,000,000" and "2023 through 2027" for "2014 through 2018".

2013—Pub. L. 113–4 amended section generally. Prior to amendment, section related to grants for outreach to underserved populations.

2006—Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 109–271, §2(h), struck out ", every 18 months," after "Office of Violence Against Women".

Subsec. (i). Pub. L. 109–271, §1(c)(2), added subsec. (i).

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2022 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 117–103 not effective until Oct. 1 of the first fiscal year beginning after Mar. 15, 2022, see section 4(a) of div. W of Pub. L. 117–103, set out as an Effective Date note under section 6851 of Title 15, Commerce and Trade.

Effective Date of 2013 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 113–4 not effective until the beginning of the fiscal year following Mar. 7, 2013, see section 4 of Pub. L. 113–4, set out as a note under section 2261 of Title 18, Crimes and Criminal Procedure.

§20124. Enhancing culturally specific services for victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking

(a) Establishment

(1) In general

Of the amounts appropriated under certain grant programs identified in paragraph (2), the Attorney General, through the Director of the Office on Violence Against Women (referred to in this section as the "Director"), shall take 15 percent of such appropriated amounts for the program under paragraph (2)(A) and 5 percent of such appropriated amounts for the programs under subparagraphs (B) through (E) of paragraph (2) and combine them to establish a new grant program to enhance culturally specific services for victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. Grants made under this new program shall be administered by the Director. The requirements of the grant programs identified in paragraph (2) shall not apply to this new grant program.

(2) Programs covered

The programs covered by paragraph (1) are the programs carried out under the following provisions:

(A) Section 10461 of this title (Grants to Encourage Arrest Policies and Enforcement of Protection Orders).

(B) Section 20121 of this title ¹ (Legal Assistance for Victims).

(C) Section 12341 of this title (Rural Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault, Stalking, and Child Abuse Enforcement Assistance).

(D) Section 14041a of title 42 (Enhanced Training and Services to End Violence Against Women Later in Life).¹

(E) Section 20122 of this title (Education, Training, and Enhanced Services to End Violence Against and Abuse of Women with Disabilities).

(3) Additional authorization of appropriations

In addition to the amounts made available under paragraph (1), there are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $25,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2023 through 2027.

(4) Distribution

(A) In general

Of the total amount available for grants under this section, not less than 40 percent of such funds shall be allocated for programs or projects that meaningfully address non-intimate partner relationship sexual assault.

(B) Alternative allocation

Notwithstanding 12291(b)(11) ² of this title, the Director may allocate a portion of funds described in subparagraph (A) to enhanced technical assistance relating to non-intimate partner sexual assault if the Office on Violence Against Women does not receive sufficient qualified applications proposing to address non-intimate partner relationship sexual assault.

(b) Purpose of program and grants

(1) General program purpose

The purpose of the program required by this section is to promote:

(A) The maintenance and replication of existing successful services in domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking community-based programs providing culturally specific services and other resources.

(B) The development of innovative culturally specific strategies and projects to enhance access to services and resources for victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking who face obstacles to using more traditional services and resources.

(2) Purposes for which grants may be used

The Director shall make grants to community-based programs for the purpose of enhancing culturally specific services for victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. Grants under the program shall support community-based efforts to address distinctive cultural responses to domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking, including—

(A) working with State and local governments and social service agencies to develop and enhance effective strategies to provide culturally specific services to victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking;

(B) increasing communities' capacity to provide culturally specific resources and support for victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking crimes and their families;

(C) strengthening criminal justice interventions, by providing training for law enforcement, prosecution, courts, probation, and correctional facilities on culturally specific responses to domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking;

(D) enhancing traditional services to victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking through the leadership of culturally specific programs offering services to victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking;

(E) working in cooperation with the community to develop education and prevention strategies highlighting culturally specific issues and resources regarding victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking;

(F) providing culturally specific programs for children exposed to domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking;

(G) providing culturally specific resources and services that address the safety, economic, housing, and workplace needs of victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking, including emergency assistance; or

(H) examining the dynamics of culture and its impact on victimization and healing.

(3) Technical assistance and training

The Director shall provide technical assistance and training to grantees of this and other programs under this Act regarding the development and provision of effective culturally specific community-based services by entering into cooperative agreements or contracts with an organization or organizations having a demonstrated expertise in and whose primary purpose is addressing the development and provision of culturally specific community-based services to victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. Not less than 1 such organization shall have demonstrated expertise primarily in domestic violence services, and not less than 1 such organization shall have demonstrated expertise primarily in non-intimate partner sexual assault services.

(c) Eligible entities

Eligible entities for grants under this Section ³ include—

(1) community-based programs whose primary purpose is providing culturally specific services to victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking; and

(2) community-based programs whose primary purpose is providing culturally specific services who can partner with a program having demonstrated expertise in serving victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking.

(d) Reporting

The Director shall issue a biennial report on the distribution of funding under this section, the progress made in replicating and supporting increased services to victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking who face obstacles to using more traditional services and resources, and the types of culturally accessible programs, strategies, technical assistance, and training developed or enhanced through this program.

(e) Evaluation

The Director shall award a contract or cooperative agreement to evaluate programs under this section to an entity with the demonstrated expertise in and primary goal of providing enhanced cultural access to services and resources for victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking who face obstacles to using more traditional services and resources.

(f) Non-exclusivity

Nothing in this Section ³ shall be interpreted to exclude culturally specific community-based programs from applying to other grant programs authorized under this Act.

(g) Definitions and grant conditions

In this section the definitions and grant conditions in section 12291 of this title shall apply.

(Pub. L. 109–162, title I, §121, Jan. 5, 2006, 119 Stat. 2991; Pub. L. 109–271, §§1(c)(3), 2(k), Aug. 12, 2006, 120 Stat. 751, 753; Pub. L. 113–4, title I, §109, Mar. 7, 2013, 127 Stat. 80; Pub. L. 117–103, div. W, title I, §108, title IX, §901(e), Mar. 15, 2022, 136 Stat. 852, 911.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

Section 20121 of this title, referred to in subsec. (a)(2)(B), was in the original "Section 14201 of division B of the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act of 2000 (42 U.S.C. 3796gg–6)", which was translated as meaning "Section 1201 of division B of the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act of 2000 (42 U.S.C. 3796gg–6)", which is section 1201 of title II of div. B of Pub. L. 106–386, to reflect the probable intent of Congress. Section 1201 of title II of div. B of Pub. L. 106–386 was classified as section 3796gg–6 of Title 42, The Public Health and Welfare, prior to editorial reclassification and renumbering as section 20121 of this title.

The parenthetical reference "(Enhanced Training and Services to End Violence Against Women Later in Life)" appearing after "Section 14041a of title 42" in subsec. (a)(2)(D), probably should be "(Enhanced Training and Services to End Violence Against and Abuse of Women Later in Life)". Section 14041a of Title 42, The Public Health and Welfare, was omitted in the general amendment of Part G of subchapter III of chapter 136 of Title 42 by Pub. L. 113–4, title II, §204(a), Mar. 7, 2013, 127 Stat. 82.

This Act, referred to in subsecs. (b)(3) and (f), is Pub. L. 109–162, Jan. 5, 2006, 119 Stat. 2960, known as the Violence Against Women and Department of Justice Reauthorization Act of 2005. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title of 2006 Act note set out under section 10101 of this title and Tables.

Codification

Section was formerly classified to section 14045a of Title 42, The Public Health and Welfare, prior to editorial reclassification and renumbering as this section.

Amendments

2022—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 117–103, §901(e), substituted "the Office on Violence Against Women" for "the Violence Against Women Office".

Pub. L. 117–103, §108(1)(A)(ii), substituted "shall take 15 percent of such appropriated amounts for the program under paragraph (2)(A) and 5 percent of such appropriated amounts for the programs under subparagraphs (B) through (E) of paragraph (2)" for "shall take 5 percent of such appropriated amounts".

Pub. L. 117–103, §108(1)(A)(i), which directed substitution of "paragraph (2)" for "paragraph (a)(2) of this subsection", was executed by making the substitution for "paragraph (a)(2) of this Section", to reflect the probable intent of Congress.

Subsec. (a)(3), (4). Pub. L. 117–103, §108(1)(B), added pars. (3) and (4).

Subsec. (b)(3). Pub. L. 117–103, §108(2), inserted at end "Not less than 1 such organization shall have demonstrated expertise primarily in domestic violence services, and not less than 1 such organization shall have demonstrated expertise primarily in non-intimate partner sexual assault services."

Subsecs. (e) to (h). Pub. L. 117–103, §108(3), (4), redesignated subsecs. (f) to (h) as (e) to (g), respectively, and struck out former subsec. (e). Prior to amendment, text of subsec. (e) read as follows: "The Director shall award grants for a 2-year period, with a possible extension of another 2 years to implement projects under the grant."

2013—Pub. L. 113–4, §109(1)–(3), struck out "and linguistically" after "culturally" in section catchline and wherever appearing in text and struck out "and linguistic" after "cultural" in subsecs. (b)(2) and (f).

Subsec. (a)(2). Pub. L. 113–4, §109(4), added par. (2) and struck out former par. (2) which related to covered programs.

Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 113–4, §109(5), struck out "linguistic and" before "culturally".

2006—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 109–271, §2(k)(1), inserted "The requirements of the grant programs identified in paragraph (2) shall not apply to this new grant program." at end.

Subsec. (b)(2). Pub. L. 109–271, §2(k)(2), which directed substituting ", including—" and subpars. (A) to (H) for the period, was executed by making the substitution for the period at the end to reflect the probable intent of Congress.

Subsec. (h). Pub. L. 109–271, §1(c)(3), added subsec. (h).

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2022 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 117–103 not effective until Oct. 1 of the first fiscal year beginning after Mar. 15, 2022, see section 4(a) of div. W of Pub. L. 117–103, set out as an Effective Date note under section 6851 of Title 15, Commerce and Trade.

Effective Date of 2013 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 113–4 not effective until the beginning of the fiscal year following Mar. 7, 2013, see section 4 of Pub. L. 113–4, set out as a note under section 2261 of Title 18, Crimes and Criminal Procedure.

Effective Date

Section not effective until the beginning of fiscal year 2007, see section 4 of Pub. L. 109–162, set out as an Effective Date of 2006 Amendment note under section 10261 of this title.

¹ See References in Text note below.

² So in original. Probably should be preceded by "section".

³ So in original. Probably should not be capitalized.

§20125. Grants to combat violent crimes on campuses

(a) Grants authorized

(1) In general

The Attorney General is authorized to make grants to institutions of higher education, for use by such institutions or consortia consisting of campus personnel, student organizations, campus administrators, security personnel, and regional crisis centers affiliated with the institution, to develop and strengthen effective security and investigation strategies to combat domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking on campuses, to develop and strengthen victim services in cases involving such crimes on campuses, which may include partnerships with local criminal justice authorities and community-based victim services agencies, and to develop and strengthen prevention education and awareness programs.

(2) Equitable participation

The Attorney General shall make every effort to ensure—

(A) the equitable participation of private and public institutions of higher education in the activities assisted under this section;

(B) the equitable geographic distribution of grants under this section among the various regions of the United States; and

(C) the equitable distribution of grants under this section to tribal colleges and universities and traditionally black colleges and universities.

(b) Use of grant funds

Grant funds awarded under this section may be used for the following purposes:

(1) To provide personnel, training, technical assistance, data collection, and other equipment with respect to the increased apprehension, investigation, and adjudication of persons committing domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking on campus.

(2) To develop, strengthen, and implement campus policies, protocols, and services that more effectively identify and respond to the crimes of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking, including the use of technology to commit these crimes, and to train campus administrators, campus security personnel, and all participants in the resolution process, including personnel from the Title IX coordinator's office, student conduct office, and campus disciplinary or judicial boards on such policies, protocols, and services that promote a prompt, fair, and impartial investigation.

(3) To provide prevention and education programming about domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking, including technological abuse and reproductive and sexual coercion, that is age-appropriate, culturally relevant, ongoing, delivered in multiple venues on campus, accessible, promotes respectful nonviolent behavior as a social norm, and engages men and boys. Such programming should be developed in partnership or collaboratively with experts in intimate partner and sexual violence prevention and intervention.

(4) To develop, enlarge, or strengthen victim services programs and population specific services on the campuses of the institutions involved, including programs providing legal, medical, or psychological counseling, for victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking, and to improve delivery of victim assistance on campus. To the extent practicable, such an institution shall collaborate with any victim service providers in the community in which the institution is located. If appropriate victim services programs are not available in the community or are not accessible to students, the institution shall, to the extent practicable, provide a victim services program on campus or create a victim services program in collaboration with a community-based organization. The institution shall use not less than 20 percent of the funds made available through the grant for a victim services program provided in accordance with this paragraph, regardless of whether the services are provided by the institution or in coordination with community victim service providers.

(5) To create, disseminate, or otherwise provide assistance and information about victims' options on and off campus to bring disciplinary or other legal action, including assistance to victims in immigration matters.

(6) To develop, install, or expand data collection and communication systems, including computerized systems, linking campus security to the local law enforcement for the purpose of identifying and tracking arrests, protection orders, violations of protection orders, prosecutions, and convictions with respect to the crimes of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking on campus.

(7) To provide capital improvements (including improved lighting and communications facilities but not including the construction of buildings) on campuses to address the crimes of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking.

(8) To support improved coordination among campus administrators, campus security personnel, and local law enforcement to reduce domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking on campus.

(9) To develop or adapt, provide, and disseminate developmental, culturally appropriate, and linguistically accessible print or electronic materials to address both prevention and intervention in domestic violence, dating violence, sexual violence, and stalking.

(10) To develop or adapt and disseminate population specific strategies and projects for victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking from underserved populations on campus.

(11) To train campus health centers and appropriate campus faculty, such as academic advisors or professionals who deal with students on a daily basis, on how to recognize and respond to domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking, including training health providers on how to provide universal education to all members of the campus community on the impacts of violence on health and unhealthy relationships and how providers can support ongoing outreach efforts.

(12) To train campus personnel in how to use a victim-centered, trauma-informed interview technique, which means asking questions of a student or a campus employee who is reported to be a victim of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking, in a manner that is focused on the experience of the reported victim, that does not judge or blame the reported victim for the alleged crime, and that is informed by evidence-based research on trauma response. To the extent practicable, campus personnel shall allow the reported victim to participate in a recorded interview and to receive a copy of the recorded interview.

(13) To develop and implement restorative practices (as defined in section 12291(a) of this title).

(c) Applications

(1) In general

In order to be eligible to be awarded a grant under this section for any fiscal year, an institution of higher education shall submit an application to the Attorney General at such time and in such manner as the Attorney General shall prescribe.

(2) Contents

Each application submitted under paragraph (1) shall—

(A) describe the need for grant funds and the plan for implementation for any of the purposes described in subsection (b);

(B) include proof that the institution of higher education collaborated with victim service providers, including domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking victim services programs in the community in which the institution is located;

(C) describe the characteristics of the population being served, including type of campus, demographics of the population, and number of students;

(D) describe how underserved populations in the campus community will be adequately served, including the provision of relevant population specific services;

(E) provide measurable goals and expected results from the use of the grant funds;

(F) provide assurances that the Federal funds made available under this section shall be used to supplement and, to the extent practical, increase the level of funds that would, in the absence of Federal funds, be made available by the institution for the purposes described in subsection (b); and

(G) include such other information and assurances as the Attorney General reasonably determines to be necessary.

(3) Compliance with campus crime reporting required

No institution of higher education shall be eligible for a grant under this section unless such institution is in compliance with the requirements of section 1092(f) of title 20. Up to $200,000 of the total amount of grant funds appropriated under this section for fiscal years 2023 through 2027 may be used to provide technical assistance in complying with the mandatory reporting requirements of section 1092(f) of title 20.

(d) General terms and conditions

(1) Nonmonetary assistance

In addition to the assistance provided under this section, the Attorney General may request any Federal agency to use the agency's authorities and the resources granted to the agency under Federal law (including personnel, equipment, supplies, facilities, and managerial, technical, and advisory services) in support of campus security, and investigation and victim service efforts.

(2) Grantee reporting

(A) Annual report

Each institution of higher education receiving a grant under this section shall submit a performance report to the Attorney General. The Attorney General shall suspend funding under this section for an institution of higher education if the institution fails to submit such a report.

(B) Final report

Upon completion of the grant period under this section, the institution shall file a performance report with the Attorney General and the Secretary of Education explaining the activities carried out under this section together with an assessment of the effectiveness of those activities in achieving the purposes described in subsection (b).

(3) Grantee minimum requirements

Each grantee shall comply with the following minimum requirements during the grant period:

(A) The grantee shall create a coordinated community response including both organizations external to the institution and relevant divisions of the institution.

(B) The grantee shall establish a mandatory prevention and education program on domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking for all students.

(C) The grantee shall train all campus law enforcement to respond effectively to domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking.

(D) The grantee shall train all participants in the resolution process, including the campus disciplinary board, the title IX coordinator's office, and the student conduct office, to respond effectively to situations involving domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking.

(4) Report to Congress

Not later than 180 days after the end of the fiscal year for which grants are awarded under this section, the Attorney General shall submit to Congress a report that includes—

(A) the number of grants, and the amount of funds, distributed under this section;

(B) a summary of the purposes for which the grants were provided and an evaluation of the progress made under the grant;

(C) a statistical summary of the persons served, detailing the nature of victimization, and providing data on age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, race, ethnicity, language, disability, relationship to offender, geographic distribution, and type of campus; and

(D) an evaluation of the effectiveness of programs funded under this part.¹

(e) Authorization of appropriations

For the purpose of carrying out this section, there is authorized to be appropriated $15,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2023 through 2027, of which not less than 10 percent shall be made available for grants to historically Black colleges and universities.

(f) Omitted

(g) Definitions and grant conditions

In this section the definitions and grant conditions in section 12291 of this title shall apply.

(Pub. L. 109–162, title III, §304, Jan. 5, 2006, 119 Stat. 3013; Pub. L. 109–271, §§1(c)(1), 4(b), (d), Aug. 12, 2006, 120 Stat. 750, 758; Pub. L. 113–4, title III, §303, Mar. 7, 2013, 127 Stat. 87; Pub. L. 117–103, div. W, title III, §303(a), Mar. 15, 2022, 136 Stat. 866.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

This part, referred to in subsec. (d)(4)(D), appearing in the original, is unidentifiable because title III of Pub. L. 109–162 does not contain parts.

Codification

Section is comprised of section 304 of Pub. L. 109–162. Subsec. (f) of section 304 of Pub. L. 109–162 repealed section 1152 of Title 20, Education.

Section was formerly classified to section 14045b of Title 42, The Public Health and Welfare, prior to editorial reclassification and renumbering as this section.

Amendments

2022—Subsec. (a)(2), (3). Pub. L. 117–103, §303(a)(1), redesignated par. (3) as (2) and struck out former par. (2). Prior to amendment, text of par. (2) read as follows: "The Attorney General shall award grants and contracts under this section on a competitive basis for a period of 3 years. The Attorney General, through the Director of the Office on Violence Against Women, shall award the grants in amounts of not more than $300,000 for individual institutions of higher education and not more than $1,000,000 for consortia of such institutions."

Subsec. (b)(2). Pub. L. 117–103, §303(a)(2)(A), amended par. (2) generally. Prior to amendment, par. (2) read as follows: "To develop, strengthen, and implement campus policies, protocols, and services that more effectively identify and respond to the crimes of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking, including the use of technology to commit these crimes, and to train campus administrators, campus security personnel, and personnel serving on campus disciplinary or judicial boards on such policies, protocols, and services. Within 90 days after January 5, 2006, the Attorney General shall issue and make available minimum standards of training relating to domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking on campus, for all campus security personnel and personnel serving on campus disciplinary or judicial boards."

Subsec. (b)(3). Pub. L. 117–103, §303(a)(2)(B), amended par. (3) generally. Prior to amendment, par. (3) read as follows: "To implement and operate education programs for the prevention of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking."

Subsec. (b)(9). Pub. L. 117–103, §303(a)(2)(C), substituted ", provide, and disseminate" for "and provide".

Subsec. (b)(10). Pub. L. 117–103, §303(a)(2)(D), inserted "and disseminate" after "or adapt".

Subsec. (b)(11) to (13). Pub. L. 117–103, §303(a)(2)(E), added pars. (11) to (13).

Subsec. (c)(3). Pub. L. 117–103, §303(a)(3), substituted "2023 through 2027" for "2014 through 2018".

Subsec. (d)(3)(B). Pub. L. 117–103, §303(a)(4)(A)(i), substituted "for all students" for "for all incoming students".

Subsec. (d)(3)(D). Pub. L. 117–103, §303(a)(4)(A)(ii), added subpar. (D) and struck out former subpar. (D). Prior to amendment, subpar. (D) read as follows: "The grantee shall train all members of campus disciplinary boards to respond effectively to situations involving domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking."

Subsec. (d)(4)(C). Pub. L. 117–103, §303(a)(4)(B), inserted "sexual orientation, gender identity," after "sex,".

Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 117–103, §303(a)(5), substituted "$15,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2023 through 2027, of which not less than 10 percent shall be made available for grants to historically Black colleges and universities" for "$12,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2014 through 2018".

2013—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 113–4, §303(1)(A), substituted "stalking on campuses," for "stalking on campuses, and" and "crimes on" for "crimes against women on" and inserted ", and to develop and strengthen prevention education and awareness programs" before period at end.

Subsec. (a)(2). Pub. L. 113–4, §303(1)(B), substituted "$300,000" for "$500,000".

Subsec. (b)(2). Pub. L. 113–4, §303(2)(A), inserted ", strengthen," after "To develop" and "including the use of technology to commit these crimes," after "sexual assault and stalking,".

Subsec. (b)(4). Pub. L. 113–4, §303(2)(B), inserted "and population specific services" after "strengthen victim services programs" and ", regardless of whether the services are provided by the institution or in coordination with community victim service providers" before period at end, and substituted "victim service providers" for "entities carrying out nonprofit and other victim services programs, including domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking victim services programs".

Subsec. (b)(9), (10). Pub. L. 113–4, §303(2)(C), added pars. (9) and (10).

Subsec. (c)(2)(B). Pub. L. 113–4, §303(3)(A)(i), substituted "victim service providers" for "any non-profit, nongovernmental entities carrying out other victim services programs".

Subsec. (c)(2)(D) to (G). Pub. L. 113–4, §303(3)(A)(ii), (iii), added subpar. (D) and redesignated former subpars. (D) to (F) as (E) to (G), respectively.

Subsec. (c)(3). Pub. L. 113–4, §303(3)(B), substituted "2014 through 2018" for "2007 through 2011".

Subsec. (d)(3), (4). Pub. L. 113–4, §303(4), added par. (3) and redesignated former par. (3) as (4).

Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 113–4, §303(5), substituted "there is authorized to be appropriated $12,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2014 through 2018." for "there are authorized to be appropriated $12,000,000 for fiscal year 2007 and $15,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2008 through 2011."

2006—Subsec. (b)(2). Pub. L. 109–271, §4(b), inserted first sentence and struck out former first sentence which read as follows: "To train campus administrators, campus security personnel, and personnel serving on campus disciplinary or judicial boards to develop and implement campus policies, protocols, and services that more effectively identify and respond to the crimes of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking."

Subsec. (d)(2)(A). Pub. L. 109–271, §4(d), struck out "biennial" before "performance report".

Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 109–271, §1(c)(1), added subsec. (g).

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2022 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 117–103 not effective until Oct. 1 of the first fiscal year beginning after Mar. 15, 2022, see section 4(a) of div. W of Pub. L. 117–103, set out as an Effective Date note under section 6851 of Title 15, Commerce and Trade.

Effective Date of 2013 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 113–4 not effective until the beginning of the fiscal year following Mar. 7, 2013, see section 4 of Pub. L. 113–4, set out as a note under section 2261 of Title 18, Crimes and Criminal Procedure.

Effective Date

Section not effective until the beginning of fiscal year 2007, see section 4 of Pub. L. 109–162, set out as an Effective Date of 2006 Amendment note under section 10261 of this title.

¹ See References in Text note below.

§20126. Consultation

(a) In general

The Attorney General shall conduct annual consultations with Indian tribal governments concerning the Federal administration of tribal funds and programs established under this Act, the Violence Against Women Act of 1994 (title IV of Public Law 103–322; 108 Stat. 1902), the Violence Against Women Act of 2000 (division B of Public Law 106–386; 114 Stat. 1491), and the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013.

(b) Recommendations

During consultations under subsection (a), the Secretary of Health and Human Services, the Secretary of the Interior, and the Attorney General shall solicit recommendations from Indian tribes concerning—

(1) administering tribal funds and programs;

(2) enhancing the safety of Indian women from domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, homicide, stalking, and sex trafficking;

(3) strengthening the Federal response to such violent crimes; and

(4) improving access to local, regional, State, and Federal crime information databases and criminal justice information systems.

(c) Annual report

The Attorney General shall submit to Congress an annual report on the annual consultations required under subsection (a) that—

(1) contains the recommendations made under subsection (b) by Indian tribes during the year covered by the report;

(2) describes actions taken during the year covered by the report to respond to recommendations made under subsection (b) during the year or a previous year; and

(3) describes how the Attorney General will work in coordination and collaboration with Indian tribes, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, and the Secretary of the Interior to address the recommendations made under subsection (b).

(d) Notice

Not later than 120 days before the date of a consultation under subsection (a), the Attorney General shall notify tribal leaders of the date, time, and location of the consultation.

(Pub. L. 109–162, title IX, §903, Jan. 5, 2006, 119 Stat. 3078; Pub. L. 113–4, title IX, §903, Mar. 7, 2013, 127 Stat. 120; Pub. L. 116–165, §4(b)(3), Oct. 10, 2020, 134 Stat. 761.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

This Act, referred to in subsec. (a), is Pub. L. 109–162, Jan. 5, 2006, 119 Stat. 2960, known as the Violence Against Women and Department of Justice Reauthorization Act of 2005. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title of 2006 Act note set out under section 10101 of this title and Tables.

The Violence Against Women Act of 1994, referred to in subsec. (a), is title IV of Pub. L. 103–322, Sept. 13, 1994, 108 Stat. 1902. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title of 1994 Act note set out under section 10101 of this title and Tables.

The Violence Against Women Act of 2000, referred to in subsec. (a), is div. B of Pub. L. 106–386, Oct. 28, 2000, 114 Stat. 1491. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title of 2000 Act note set out under section 10101 of this title and Tables.

The Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013, referred to in subsec. (a), is Pub. L. 113–4, Mar. 7, 2013, 127 Stat. 54. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title of 2013 Act note set out under section 10101 of this title and Tables.

Codification

Section was formerly classified to section 14045d of Title 42, The Public Health and Welfare, prior to editorial reclassification and renumbering as this section.

Amendments

2020—Subsec. (b)(2). Pub. L. 116–165, §4(b)(3)(A), added par. (2) and struck out former par. (2) which read as follows: "enhancing the safety of Indian women from domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, and sex trafficking; and".

Subsec. (b)(4). Pub. L. 116–165, §4(b)(3)(B), (C), added par. (4).

2013—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 113–4, §903(1), substituted ", the Violence Against Women Act of 2000" for "and the Violence Against Women Act of 2000" and inserted ", and the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013" before period at end.

Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 113–4, §903(2)(A), substituted "Secretary of Health and Human Services, the Secretary of the Interior," for "Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services" in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (b)(2). Pub. L. 113–4, §903(2)(B), substituted "stalking, and sex trafficking" for "and stalking".

Subsecs. (c), (d). Pub. L. 113–4, §903(3), added subsecs. (c) and (d).

§20127. Emergency and transitional pet shelter and housing assistance grant program

(1) Grant program

(A) In general

The Secretary, acting in consultation with the Office of the Violence Against Women ¹ of the Department of Justice, the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, and the Secretary of Health and Human Services, shall award grants under this section to eligible entities to carry out programs to provide the assistance described in paragraph (3) with respect to victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking and the pets, service animals, emotional support animals, or horses of such victims.

(B) Memorandum of understanding

The Secretary may enter into a memorandum of understanding with the head of another Department or agency, as appropriate, to carry out any of the authorities provided to the Secretary under this section.²

(2) Application

(A) In general

An eligible entity seeking a grant under this section shall submit an application to the Secretary at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary may reasonably require, including—

(i) a description of the activities for which a grant under this section is sought;

(ii) such assurances as the Secretary determines to be necessary to ensure compliance by the entity with the requirements of this section; and

(iii) a certification that the entity, before engaging with any individual domestic violence victim, will disclose to the victim any mandatory duty of the entity to report instances of abuse and neglect (including instances of abuse and neglect of pets, service animals, emotional support animals, or horses).

(B) Additional requirements

In addition to the requirements of subparagraph (A), each application submitted by an eligible entity under that subparagraph shall—

(i) not include proposals for any activities that may compromise the safety of a domestic violence victim, including—

(I) background checks of domestic violence victims; or

(II) clinical evaluations to determine the eligibility of such a victim for support services;

(ii) not include proposals that would require mandatory services for victims or that a victim obtain a protective order in order to receive proposed services; and

(iii) reflect the eligible entity's understanding of the dynamics of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking.

(C) Rules of construction

Nothing in this paragraph shall be construed to require—

(i) domestic violence victims to participate in the criminal justice system in order to receive services; or

(ii) eligible entities receiving a grant under this section to breach client confidentiality.

(3) Use of funds

Grants awarded under this section may only be used for programs that provide—

(A) emergency and transitional shelter and housing assistance for domestic violence victims with pets, service animals, emotional support animals, or horses, including assistance with respect to any construction or operating expenses of newly developed or existing emergency and transitional pet, service animal, emotional support animal, or horse shelter and housing (regardless of whether such shelter and housing is co-located at a victim service provider or within the community);

(B) short-term shelter and housing assistance for domestic violence victims with pets, service animals, emotional support animals, or horses, including assistance with respect to expenses incurred for the temporary shelter, housing, boarding, or fostering of the pets, service animals, emotional support animals, or horses of domestic violence victims and other expenses that are incidental to securing the safety of such a pet, service animal, emotional support animal, or horse during the sheltering, housing, or relocation of such victims;

(C) support services designed to enable a domestic violence victim who is fleeing a situation of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking to—

(i) locate and secure—

(I) safe housing with the victim's pet, service animal, emotional support animal, or horse; or

(II) safe accommodations for the victim's pet, service animal, emotional support animal, or horse; or

(ii) provide the victim with pet, service animal, emotional support animal, or horse related services, such as transportation, care services, and other assistance; or

(D) for the training of relevant stakeholders on—

(i) the link between domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking and the abuse and neglect of pets, service animals, emotional support animals, and horses;

(ii) the needs of domestic violence victims;

(iii) best practices for providing support services to such victims;

(iv) best practices for providing such victims with referrals to victims' services; and

(v) the importance of confidentiality.

(4) Grant conditions

An eligible entity that receives a grant under this section shall, as a condition of such receipt, agree—

(A) to be bound by the nondisclosure of confidential information requirements of section 12291(b)(2) of this title; and

(B) that the entity shall not condition the receipt of support, housing, or other benefits provided pursuant to this section on the participation of domestic violence victims in any or all of the support services offered to such victims through a program carried out by the entity using grant funds.

(5) Duration of assistance provided to victims

(A) In general

Subject to subparagraph (B), assistance provided with respect to a pet, service animal, emotional support animal, or horse of a domestic violence victim using grant funds awarded under this section shall be provided for a period of not more than 24 months.

(B) Extension

An eligible entity that receives a grant under this section may extend the 24-month period referred to in subparagraph (A) for a period of not more than 6 months in the case of a domestic violence victim who—

(i) has made a good faith effort to acquire permanent housing for the victim and the victim's pet, service animal, emotional support animal, or horse during that 24-month period; and

(ii) has been unable to acquire such permanent housing within that period.

(6) Report to the Secretary

Not later than 1 year after the date on which an eligible entity receives a grant under this section and each year thereafter in which the grant funds are used, the entity shall submit to the Secretary a report that contains, with respect to assistance provided by the entity to domestic violence victims with pets, service animals, emotional support animals, or horses using grant funds received under this section, information on—

(A) the number of domestic violence victims with pets, service animals, emotional support animals, or horses provided such assistance; and

(B) the purpose, amount, type of, and duration of such assistance.

(7) Report to Congress

(A) Reporting requirement

Not later than November 1 of each even-numbered fiscal year, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Agriculture of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry of the Senate a report that contains a compilation of the information contained in the reports submitted under paragraph (6).

(B) Availability of report

The Secretary shall transmit a copy of the report submitted under subparagraph (A) to—

(i) the Office on Violence Against Women of the Department of Justice;

(ii) the Office of Community Planning and Development of the Department of Housing and Urban Development; and

(iii) the Administration for Children and Families of the Department of Health and Human Services.

(8) Authorization of appropriations

(A) In general

There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $3,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2019 through 2023.

(B) Limitation

Of the amount made available under subparagraph (A) in any fiscal year, not more than 5 percent may be used for evaluation, monitoring, salaries, and administrative expenses.

(9) Definitions

In this section:

(A) Domestic violence victim defined

The term "domestic violence victim" means a victim of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking.

(B) Eligible entity

The term "eligible entity" means—

(i) a State;

(ii) a unit of local government;

(iii) an Indian tribe; or

(iv) any other organization that has a documented history of effective work concerning domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking (as determined by the Secretary), including—

(I) a domestic violence and sexual assault victim service provider;

(II) a domestic violence and sexual assault coalition;

(III) a community-based and culturally specific organization;

(IV) any other nonprofit, nongovernmental organization; and

(V) any organization that works directly with pets, service animals, emotional support animals, or horses and collaborates with any organization referred to in clauses (i) through (iv), including—

(aa) an animal shelter; and

(bb) an animal welfare organization.

(C) Emotional support animal

The term "emotional support animal" means an animal that is covered by the exclusion specified in section 5.303 of title 24, Code of Federal Regulations (or a successor regulation), and that is not a service animal.

(D) Pet

The term "pet" means a domesticated animal, such as a dog, cat, bird, rodent, fish, turtle, or other animal that is kept for pleasure rather than for commercial purposes.

(E) Service animal

The term "service animal" has the meaning given the term in section 36.104 of title 28, Code of Federal Regulations (or a successor regulation).

(F) Other terms

Except as otherwise provided in this section, terms used in this section ² shall have the meaning given such terms in section 12291(a) of this title.

(Pub. L. 115–334, title XII, §12502(b), Dec. 20, 2018, 132 Stat. 4983.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

This section, referred to par. (1)(B) and the second time appearing in par. (9)(F), was so in the original, meaning section 12502 of title XII of Pub. L. 115–334. For classification of section 12502 to the Code, see Codification note below.

Codification

Section is comprised of section 12502(b) of title XII of Pub. L. 115–334. Section 12502(a) of Pub. L. 115–334 amended sections 2261A, 2262, 2264, and 2266 of Title 18, Crimes and Criminal Procedure. Section 12502(c) of Pub. L. 115–334 is not classified to the Code.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Definition of "Secretary"

"Secretary" means the Secretary of Agriculture, see section 2 of Pub. L. 115–334, set out as a note under section 9001 of Title 7, Agriculture.

¹ So in original. Probably should be "Office on Violence Against Women".

² See References in Text note below.

§20128. Agency and department coordination

Each head of an Executive department (as defined in section 101 of title 5) responsible for carrying out a program under this Act, the Violence Against Women Act of 1994 (title IV of Public Law 103–322; 108 Stat. 1902), the Violence Against Women Act of 2000 (division B of Public Law 106–386; 114 Stat. 1491), the Violence Against Women and Department of Justice Reauthorization Act of 2005 (title IX of Public Law 109–162; 119 Stat. 3080) ¹, or the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013 (Public Law 113–4; 127 Stat. 54) may coordinate and collaborate on the prevention of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking, including sharing best practices and efficient use of resources and technology for victims and those seeking assistance from the Federal Government.

(Pub. L. 117–103, div. W, §3, Mar. 15, 2022, 136 Stat. 846.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

This Act, referred to in text, is div. W of Pub. L. 117–103, Apr. 6, 2022, 136 Stat. 840, known as the Violence Against Women Act Reauthorization Act of 2022. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see section 1 of div. W of Pub. L. 117–103, set out as a Short Title of 2022 Amendment note under section 10101 of this title, and Tables.

The Violence Against Women Act of 1994, referred to in text, is title IV of Pub. L. 103–322, Sept. 13, 1994, 108 Stat. 1902. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see section 40001 of Pub. L. 103–322, set out as a Short Title of 1994 Act note under section 10101 of this title, and Tables.

The Violence Against Women Act of 2000, referred to in text, is div. B of Pub. L. 106–386, Oct. 28, 2000, 114 Stat. 1491. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title of 2000 Act note set out under section 10101 of this title and Tables.

The Violence Against Women and Department of Justice Reauthorization Act of 2005, referred to in text, is Pub. L. 109–162, Jan. 5, 2006, 119 Stat. 2960. Section 3 and Titles I to IX of the Act are known as the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2005. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see section 1 of Pub. L. 109–162, set out as a Short Title of 2006 Act note under section 10101 of this title, and Tables.

The Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013, referred to in text, is Pub. L. 113–4, Mar. 7, 2013, 127 Stat. 54. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see section 1 of Pub. L. 113–4, set out as a Short Title of 2013 Act note under section 10101 of this title, and Tables.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date

Section not effective until Oct. 1 of the first fiscal year beginning after Mar. 15, 2022, see section 4(a) of div. W of Pub. L. 117–103, set out as a note under section 6851 of Title 15, Commerce and Trade.

Definitions

For definitions of terms used in this section, see section 12291 of this title, as made applicable by section 2(b) of div. W of Pub. L. 117–103, which is set out as a note under section 12291 of this title.

¹ See References in Text note below.

§20129. LGBT specific services program

(a) Establishment

The Attorney General, acting through the Director of the Violence Against Women Office ¹ (referred to in this section as the "Director"), shall make grants to eligible entities to enhance lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (referred to in this section as "LGBT") specific services for victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking.

(b) Purpose of program and grants

(1) General program purpose

The purpose of the program required by this section is to promote the following:

(A) The maintenance and replication of existing successful LGBT specific domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking community-based programs providing services and resources for LGBT victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking.

(B) The development of innovative LGBT specific strategies and projects to enhance access to services and resources for LGBT victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking who face obstacles to using more traditional services and resources.

(2) Purposes for which grants may be used

The Director shall make grants to community-based programs for the purpose of enhancing LGBT specific services for victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. Grants under the program shall support community-based efforts to address distinctive LGBT specific responses to domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking, including—

(A) providing or enhancing services for LGBT victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking, including services that address the safety, emotional well-being, economic, housing, legal and workplace needs of LGBT victims;

(B) supporting programs that specifically address underserved LGBT communities, including culturally specific communities, to provide specific resources and support for LGBT underserved victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking;

(C) working in cooperation with the community to develop education and prevention strategies highlighting LGBT specific issues and resources regarding victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking;

(D) conducting outreach activities to ensure that LGBT people who are victims of domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, or sexual assault receive appropriate assistance;

(E) providing training for victim service providers, governmental agencies, courts, law enforcement and other first responders, and nonprofit, nongovernmental organizations serving the LGBT community about risk reduction, intervention, prevention, and the nature of domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, and sexual assault;

(F) developing and implementing LGBT specific programming that focuses on victim autonomy, agency, and safety in order to provide resolution and restitution for the victim; and

(G) providing LGBT specific programs for the non-offending LGBT parents of children exposed to domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking.

(3) Technical assistance and training

The Director shall provide technical assistance and training to grantees of this and other programs under this Act regarding the development and provision of effective LGBT specific community-based services by entering into cooperative agreements or contracts with an organization or organizations having a demonstrated expertise in and whose primary purpose is addressing the development and provision of LGBT specific community-based services to victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking.

(c) Eligible entities

Eligible entities for grants under this section include—

(1) community-based organizations, the primary purpose of which is providing LGBT specific services to victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking; and

(2) community-based organizations, the primary purpose of which is providing LGBT specific services that can partner with a program having demonstrated expertise in serving victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking, and that agrees to receive technical assistance from a program with LGBT specific expertise.

(d) Reporting

The Director shall issue a biennial report on the distribution of funding under this section, the progress made in replicating and supporting increased services to LGBT victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking and the types of LGBT specific programs, strategies, technical assistance, and training developed or enhanced through this program.

(e) Evaluation

The Director shall award a contract or cooperative agreement to evaluate programs under this section to an entity with the demonstrated expertise in and primary goal of providing enhanced access to services and resources for victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking who face obstacles to using more traditional services and resources.

(f) Non-exclusivity

Nothing in this section shall be construed to exclude LGBT community-based organizations from applying to other grant programs authorized under this Act.

(g) Authorization of appropriations

There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $8,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2023 through 2027, to remain available until expended.

(Pub. L. 117–103, div. W, title II, §206, Mar. 15, 2022, 136 Stat. 861.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

This Act, referred to in subsecs. (b)(3) and (f), is div. W of Pub. L. 117–103, Apr. 6, 2022, 136 Stat. 840, known as the Violence Against Women Act Reauthorization Act of 2022. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see section 1 of div. W of Pub. L. 117–103, set out as a Short Title of 2022 Amendment note under section 10101 of this title, and Tables.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date

Section not effective until Oct. 1 of the first fiscal year beginning after Mar. 15, 2022, see section 4(a) of div. W of Pub. L. 117–103, set out as a note under section 6851 of Title 15, Commerce and Trade.

Definitions

For definitions of terms used in this section, see section 12291 of this title, as made applicable by section 2(b) of div. W of Pub. L. 117–103, which is set out as a note under section 12291 of this title.

¹ So in original. Probably should be "Office on Violence Against Women".

§20130. Study and reports on barriers to survivors' economic security access

(a) Study

The Secretary of Health and Human Services, in consultation with the Secretary of Labor, shall conduct a study on the barriers that survivors of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking throughout the United States experience in maintaining economic security, including the impact of the COVID–19 pandemic on such victims' ability to maintain economic security, as a result of issues related to domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking.

(b) Reports

Not later than 1 year after March 15, 2022, and every 5 years thereafter, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, in consultation with the Secretary of Labor, shall submit a report to Congress on the study conducted under subsection (a).

(c) Contents

The study and reports under this section shall include—

(1) identification of geographic areas in which State laws, regulations, and practices have a strong impact on the ability of survivors of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking to exercise—

(A) any rights under this title (including any amendments made by this title) without compromising personal safety or the safety of others, including family members and excluding the abuser; and

(B) other components of economic security, including financial empowerment, affordable housing, transportation, health care access, credit history, and quality education and training opportunities;

(2) identification of geographic areas with shortages in resources for such survivors, with an accompanying analysis of the extent and impact of such shortage;

(3) analysis of the unique barriers faced by such survivors living in rural communities;

(4) analysis of factors related to industries, workplace settings, employer practices, trends, and other elements that impact the ability of such survivors to exercise any rights under this Act (including any amendments made by this Act) without compromising personal safety or the safety of others, including family members;

(5) the recommendations of the Secretary of Health and Human Services and the Secretary of Labor with respect to resources, oversight, and enforcement tools to ensure successful implementation of the provisions of this Act in order to support the economic security and safety of survivors of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking;

(6) best practices for States, employers, health carriers, insurers, and other private entities in addressing issues related to domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking; and

(7) barriers that impede victims' ability to pursue legal action, including legal costs and filing fees, and complexities of the jurisdiction of law enforcement agencies.

(Pub. L. 117–103, div. W, title VII, §704, Mar. 15, 2022, 136 Stat. 894.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

This title, referred to in subsec. (c)(1)(A), means title VII of div. W of Pub. L. 117–103, Mar. 15, 2022, 136 Stat. 889, which enacted this section, amended section 12501 of this title and section 602 of Title 42, The Public Health and Welfare, and enacted provisions set out as notes under section 12501 of this title and section 602 of Title 42. For complete classification of title VII to the Code, see Tables.

This Act, referred to in subsec. (c)(4), (5), is div. W of Pub. L. 117–103, Apr. 6, 2022, 136 Stat. 840, known as the Violence Against Women Act Reauthorization Act of 2022. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see section 1 of div. W of Pub. L. 117–103, set out as a Short Title of 2022 Amendment note under section 10101 of this title, and Tables.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date

Section not effective until Oct. 1 of the first fiscal year beginning after Mar. 15, 2022, see section 4(a) of div. W of Pub. L. 117–103, set out as a note under section 6851 of Title 15, Commerce and Trade.

Definitions

For definitions of terms used in this section, see section 12291 of this title, as made applicable by section 2(b) of div. W of Pub. L. 117–103, which is set out as a note under section 12291 of this title.

§20131. Media campaign

(1) Definitions

In this subsection:

(A) Director

The term "Director" means the Director of the Office on Violence Against Women.

(B) National media campaign

The term "national media campaign" means the national "Choose Respect" media campaign described in paragraph (2).

(2) Media campaign

The Director shall, to the extent feasible and appropriate, conduct a national "Choose Respect" media campaign in accordance with this section for the purposes of—

(A) preventing and discouraging violence against women, including domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking by targeting the attitudes, perceptions, and beliefs of individuals who have or are likely to commit such crimes;

(B) encouraging victims of the crimes described in subparagraph (A) to seek help through the means determined to be most effective by the most current evidence available, including seeking legal representation; and

(C) informing the public about the help available to victims of the crimes described in subparagraph (A).

(3) Use of funds

(A) In general

Amounts made available to carry out this section for the national media campaign may only be used for the following:

(i) The purchase of media time and space, including the strategic planning for, tracking, and accounting of, such purchases.

(ii) Creative and talent costs, consistent with subparagraph (B).

(iii) Advertising production costs, which may include television, radio, internet, social media, and other commercial marketing venues.

(iv) Testing and evaluation of advertising.

(v) Evaluation of the effectiveness of the national media campaign.

(vi) Costs of contracts to carry out activities authorized by this subsection.

(vii) Partnerships with professional and civic groups, community-based organizations, including faith-based organizations and culturally specific organizations, and government organizations related to the national media campaign.

(viii) Entertainment industry outreach, interactive outreach, media projects and activities, public information, news media outreach, corporate sponsorship and participation, and professional sports associations and military branch participation.

(ix) Operational and management expenses.

(B) Specific requirements

(i) Creative services

In using amounts for creative and talent costs under subparagraph (A), the Director shall use creative services donated at no cost to the Government wherever feasible and may only procure creative services for advertising—

(I) responding to high-priority or emergent campaign needs that cannot timely be obtained at no cost; or

(II) intended to reach a minority, ethnic, or other special audience that cannot reasonably be obtained at no cost.

(ii) Testing and evaluation of advertising

In using amounts for testing and evaluation of advertising under subparagraph (A)(iv), the Director shall test all advertisements prior to use in the national media campaign to ensure that the advertisements are effective with the target audience and meet industry-accepted standards. The Director may waive this requirement for advertisements using not more than 10 percent of the purchase of advertising time purchased under this section in a fiscal year and not more than 10 percent of the advertising space purchased under this section in a fiscal year, if the advertisements respond to emergent and time-sensitive campaign needs or the advertisements will not be widely utilized in the national media campaign.

(iii) Consultation

For the planning of the campaign under paragraph (2), the Director may consult with—

(I) the Office for Victims of Crime, the Administration on Children, Youth and Families, and other related Federal Government entities;

(II) State, local, and Indian Tribal governments;

(III) the prevention of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking, including national and local non-profits; and

(IV) communications professionals.

(iv) Evaluation of effectiveness of national media campaign

In using amounts for the evaluation of the effectiveness of the national media campaign under subparagraph (A)(v), the Attorney General shall—

(I) designate an independent entity to evaluate by April 20 of each year the effectiveness of the national media campaign based on data from any relevant studies or publications, as determined by the Attorney General, including tracking and evaluation data collected according to marketing and advertising industry standards; and

(II) ensure that the effectiveness of the national media campaign is evaluated in a manner that enables consideration of whether the national media campaign has contributed to changes in attitude or behaviors among the target audience with respect to violence against women and such other measures of evaluation as the Attorney General determines are appropriate.

(4) Advertising

In carrying out this subsection, the Director shall ensure that sufficient funds are allocated to meet the stated goals of the national media campaign.

(5) Responsibilities and functions under the program

(A) In general

The Director shall determine the overall purposes and strategy of the national media campaign.

(B) Director

(i) In general

The Director shall approve—

(I) the strategy of the national media campaign;

(II) all advertising and promotional material used in the national media campaign; and

(III) the plan for the purchase of advertising time and space for the national media campaign.

(ii) Implementation

The Director shall be responsible for implementing a focused national media campaign to meet the purposes described in paragraph (2) and shall ensure—

(I) information disseminated through the campaign is accurate and scientifically valid; and

(II) the campaign is designed using strategies demonstrated to be the most effective at achieving the goals and requirements of paragraph (2), which may include—

(aa) a media campaign, as described in paragraph (3);

(bb) local, regional, or population specific messaging;

(cc) the development of websites to publicize and disseminate information;

(dd) conducting outreach and providing educational resources for women;

(ee) collaborating with law enforcement agencies; and

(ff) providing support for school-based public health education classes to improve teen knowledge about the effects of violence against women.

(6) Prohibitions

None of the amounts made available under paragraph (3) may be obligated or expended for any of the following:

(A) To supplant current antiviolence against women campaigns by community-based coalitions.

(B) To supplant pro bono public service time donated by national and local broadcasting networks for other public service campaigns.

(C) For partisan political purposes, or to express advocacy in support of or to defeat any clearly identified candidate, clearly identified ballot initiative, or clearly identified legislative or regulatory proposal.

(D) To fund advertising that features any elected officials, persons seeking elected office, cabinet level officials, or other Federal officials employed pursuant to schedule C of subpart C of title 5, Code of Federal Regulations.

(E) To fund advertising that does not contain a primary message intended to reduce or prevent violence against women.

(F) To fund advertising containing a primary message intended to promote support for the national media campaign or private sector contributions to the national media campaign.

(7) Financial and performance accountability

The Director shall cause to be performed—

(A) audits and reviews of costs of the national media campaign pursuant to section 4706 of title 41; and

(B) an audit to determine whether the costs of the national media campaign are allowable under chapter 43 of title 41.

(8) Report to Congress

The Director shall submit on an annual basis a report to Congress that describes—

(A) the strategy of the national media campaign and whether specific objectives of the national media campaign were accomplished;

(B) steps taken to ensure that the national media campaign operates in an effective and efficient manner consistent with the overall strategy and focus of the national media campaign;

(C) plans to purchase advertising time and space;

(D) policies and practices implemented to ensure that Federal funds are used responsibly to purchase advertising time and space and eliminate the potential for waste, fraud, and abuse;

(E) all contracts entered into with a corporation, partnership, or individual working on behalf of the national media campaign;

(F) the results of any financial audit of the national media campaign;

(G) a description of any evidence used to develop the national media campaign;

(H) specific policies and steps implemented to ensure compliance with this subsection;

(I) a detailed accounting of the amount of funds obligated during the previous fiscal year for carrying out the national media campaign, including each recipient of funds, the purpose of each expenditure, the amount of each expenditure, any available outcome information, and any other information necessary to provide a complete accounting of the funds expended; and

(J) a review and evaluation of the effectiveness of the national media campaign strategy for the previous year.

(9) Authorization of appropriations

There are authorized to be appropriated to the Director to carry out this section $5,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2023 through 2027, to remain available until expended.

(Pub. L. 117–103, div. W, title XIII, §1310(c), Mar. 15, 2022, 136 Stat. 931.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

This subsection, referred to in pars. (1), (3)(A)(vi), (4), and (8)(H), is subsec. (c) of section 1310 of div. W of Pub. L. 117–103, which is classified to this section.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date

Section not effective until Oct. 1 of the first fiscal year beginning after Mar. 15, 2022, see section 4(a) of div. W of Pub. L. 117–103, set out as a note under section 6851 of Title 15, Commerce and Trade.

Definitions

For definitions of terms used in this section, see section 12291 of this title, as made applicable by section 2(b) of div. W of Pub. L. 117–103, which is set out as a note under section 12291 of this title.