Panel OKs Bill Making Rape a ‘Hate’ Crime
A bill that would entitle sexually assaulted women to sue their attackers in federal court was approved Thursday by the Senate Judiciary Committee.
The Violence Against Women Act, approved unanimously by a voice vote, would allow women who are raped to file civil rights suits to collect damages from their attackers. It declares that rape is a “bias” or “hate” crime that violates federal civil rights law.
The measure, sponsored by Sen. Joseph R. Biden Jr. (D-Del.), the panel’s chairman, would also authorize $500 million to help state and local authorities combat rape and other crimes against women.
Another provision would increase federal financing of shelters for women who are the victims of physical abuse by spouses. The bill would also provide $10 million in grants to colleges for combatting rape on campuses.
The Justice Department has expressed concerns about the provision allowing women to sue their attackers, saying it could lead to a flood of litigation.
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