January 2, RICHMOND –Governor Timothy M. Kaine announced sexual and domestic violence prevention and response proposals he will submit for consideration by the 2008 General Assembly. The legislative package includes proposals to fund community-based sexual and domestic violence prevention programs and measures to bring the Commonwealth in compliance with the federal Violence Against Women Act of 2005. The budget and legislative proposals are based on recommendations from the Governor’s Commission on Sexual Violence.

“While Virginia has made progress in the management of sexually violent offenders, we have fallen behind in our efforts to address the needs of victims,” said Governor Kaine. “The physical and emotional trauma suffered by victims of sexual violence, often compounded by silence and stigma surrounding the crime, calls for special attention in our response and prevention efforts. These measures will help us move towards prevention and response efforts that put victims first.”

• For more information, view the Governor's News Release
• Listen to audio from the press conference (mp3, 5Mb)
• View the Commission's report and recommendations to the Governor (pdf, 237k)