S. 2159: Tech Safety for Victims of Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault, and Stalking Act

This bill, known as the Tech Safety for Victims of Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault, and Stalking Act, aims to establish a pilot program that addresses technology-related abuse in cases of domestic violence and similar issues. It recognizes that a significant number of individuals experience physical and non-physical forms of abuse, including technological abuse, especially in the context of intimate partner relationships. Here’s a breakdown of key components of the bill:

Findings

The bill states several findings about the prevalence of domestic violence and the emerging threat of technological abuse, including:

• 41% of women and 26% of men in the U.S. experience some form of intimate partner violence.
• A large percentage of abusers utilize technology to control or harass their victims.
• Technological abuse can include unwanted communications, monitoring of activities, and use of spyware.
• Victims often face challenges related to the rapid advancement of technology that abusers exploit.

Pilot Program

The bill authorizes the establishment of a pilot program with several objectives:

• The Director of the Office on Violence Against Women will award grants to eligible groups to combat technological abuse.
• The grants can be used for purchasing technology for victims and providing services that help prevent technological abuse.
• Grants will be capped at $2 million each, with a limit of 15 grants awarded in total.
• The pilot program will run for five years, with mandatory reviews and reports to Congress on its efficacy and challenges.

Eligible Consortia

To apply for funding, an eligible consortium must include:

• An institution of higher education with relevant technological programs.
• Private or public partners in the community that can provide a technical workforce.
• A domestic violence or sexual violence center.

Educational Grant Program

In addition to the pilot program, the bill also establishes an educational grant program to:

• Support nonprofit organizations and educational institutions in developing training programs related to technological abuse.
• Provide funding to create tools and materials to assist those working with victims.
• Allow for a total of $20 million in grants to be distributed over five years.

Reporting and Accountability

The bill includes provisions for accountability through reports that will assess the pilot program. The Director must submit a report to Congress detailing:

• The effectiveness of the program.
• Challenges encountered and potential solutions.
• Recommendations for making the program permanent.

Authorization of Appropriations

Funding necessary to carry out the program and related activities will be authorized, allowing the government to allocate funds as needed.

Relevant Companies

None found