Federal Bill Seeks to Expand Support for Domestic Violence Survivors

30 Jul 2026

Federal Bill Seeks to Expand Support for Domestic Violence Survivors

Lawmakers have introduced the Family Violence Prevention and Services Improvement Act of 2026 (S. 3764), bipartisan legislation that would modernize and strengthen the nation’s primary federal funding source for domestic violence services. The proposal would reauthorize and expand the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act (FVPSA), increasing support for emergency shelters, crisis hotlines, housing assistance, culturally specific programs, and services for underserved communities. The bill also recognizes emerging forms of abuse, including technology-facilitated and economic abuse, and would invest in prevention initiatives focused on youth and teen dating violence.

If enacted, the legislation would help community organizations meet growing demand for survivor services while expanding access to trauma-informed, culturally responsive care. For domestic violence organizations, the bill represents an opportunity to strengthen the safety net for survivors through increased federal investment and updated policies that reflect the realities of abuse today. As the bill moves through Congress, advocates continue encouraging lawmakers to prioritize sustained funding for the programs that help survivors achieve safety, stability, and long-term healing.