Bill targets sexual, domestic assaults

[unhappycamper]

Bill targets sexual, domestic assaults
By William H. McMichael - Staff writer
Posted : Tuesday Feb 3, 2009 13:20:42 EST

A New York congresswoman’s proposed bill would force the Pentagon to better protect service members against sexual and domestic violence.

The Military Domestic and Sexual Violence Response Act, introduced Tuesday by Rep. Louise Slaughter, D-N.Y., would establish an Office of Victims Advocate within the Pentagon and create confidentiality protocols to protect the rights of victims under military law.

Additionally, the legislation would codify policies for preventing, responding to, treating and prosecuting cases of family violence, domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking in the military and among military families.

“It is unconscionable that our soldiers are too often victimized twice — first by their perpetrator, then again by the military’s lack of an appropriate and compassionate response,” said Slaughter, who called sexual and domestic violence “serious problems” in the military.

“My bill helps ensure that domestic violence or sexual assault victims in the military receive the treatment and justice he or she deserves.”


Rest of article at: http://armytimes.com/news/2009/02/military_sexualviolence_protection_020309w/%2e