• The following is from an editorial in the Kansas City Star:
It's uncomfortable to contemplate but all too real. Teen dating violence is often hidden, and few teens know how to extricate themselves or friends, or even where to seek help.
The U.S. Senate did right by women — and society — this week by reauthorizing the Violence Against Women Act. It's the second time in the last year a large majority of senators agreed to expand protections to combat domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking. The bill is widely supported by victim advocates' groups and the public.
The 22 no votes were all Republican, and one hopes this vote in particular will be remembered if they again seek office. The reauthorization bill offers needed expanded protections for gays, undocumented immigrants and Native American women who suffer from domestic abuse, groups now not treated equally under the law. The landmark legislation — first passed in 1994 and reauthorized in 2000 and 2005 — sought to improve criminal justice and community responses to violence against women.
It's up to the House now, but the Republican-led chamber is making excuses for inaction again after letting the bill die last year. The act expired in 2011, but it has continued to receive funding through the appropriations process.
The "no" side to what should be an easy bipartisan vote offers tortured reasoning for opposition. Of course, all opponents start with professed regard for anti-violence measures. Just not the one that's done the most good already.
We think the opposition is stretching concerns about non-Native Americans facing tribal courts to create a dangerous and mean-spirited diversion.
Why aren't the no voters expressing worries about Native American women abused by non-Native Americans?
President Barack Obama wants to sign the bill. The best gift the House could give America soon is a yes vote.