Tech Safety for Victims of Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault, and Stalking Act
- Sponsor
- Sen. Wyden, Ron [D-OR]
- Committees
- Judiciary Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jun 25, 2025
Bottom line
This bill seeks to enhance support for victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking by funding programs that directly combat technological abuse and educate service providers on its evolving forms.
What it actually does
This bill establishes two grant programs under the Office on Violence Against Women. The first is a 5-year pilot program providing up to 15 grants, each up to $2,000,000, to eligible consortia (tech/cyber institutions or private partners with victim service providers) to combat technological abuse, including purchasing new devices for victims. The second is a 5-year grant program, totaling up to $20,000,000, for nonprofit organizations and institutions of higher education to develop training and educational materials for those supporting victims of technological abuse.
Proponents argue
Proponents argue that the proliferation of digital technology has made technological abuse a pervasive and evolving threat to victims of intimate partner violence, stalking, and sexual assault. They contend that integrating trained technology experts into survivor support networks, as demonstrated by successful models, is crucial for preventing and shielding survivors. This bill provides necessary funding and structure to scale these efforts, ensuring victims have access to resources and support to counter tech-facilitated abuse.
Opponents contend
No specific organized opposition is typically raised against bills aimed at supporting victims of domestic violence or combating abuse. Potential criticisms, if any, might focus on the allocation of funds, the administrative overhead of new pilot programs, or the effectiveness of technology-based interventions compared to other forms of victim support, though these are not explicitly stated in the context of this bill.
The bill is concise and clearly written, making it accessible for a quick and informed review by any interested reader.
Section 4
Establishment of Tech Safety Pilot Program
This section authorizes the Director of the Office on Violence Against Women to create a 5-year pilot program. It allows for up to 15 grants, each not exceeding $2,000,000, to eligible consortia. These consortia must include a technology-focused institution or private sector partner and a domestic or sexual violence center. Funds can be used to combat technological abuse, including buying new tech devices for victims and providing other victim services.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this pilot program directly addresses a critical and growing need by providing targeted resources to combat technological abuse, which is increasingly prevalent. They believe that empowering victims with new, secure devices and specialized tech support, facilitated by partnerships between tech experts and victim service providers, is an effective strategy to enhance safety and recovery.
Critics contend
While direct opposition is unlikely, some might argue that a pilot program with a limited number of grants may not be sufficient to address the widespread nature of technological abuse. Others might question the long-term sustainability of such programs without permanent funding mechanisms or the potential for technology to evolve faster than the program can adapt.
Tradeoffs
The bill balances the immediate need for intervention with a cautious pilot approach, allowing for evaluation before potential expansion. It also balances direct aid (new devices) with broader service provision, aiming for comprehensive support.
Section 5
Education and Training on Technological Abuse
This section establishes a separate grant program, also administered by the Director of the Office on Violence Against Women, in consultation with the Secretaries of Education and Health and Human Services. It authorizes up to $20,000,000 in total grants over a 5-year period for nonprofit organizations and institutions of higher education. The purpose is to develop and implement training programs, curricula, and technical assistance for individuals and organizations that support victims of technological abuse, enhancing their capacity to respond effectively.