The Legislative Process

Learn about the legislative and budget process, and how it impacts the people we serve.

Women Against Abuse works with our legislative bodies at the city, state and federal level on policies that support survivors of domestic violence. These legislative bodies are responsible for introducing various legislation that, if passed, becomes law and governs our day-to-day lives.

In addition to laws, our legislative bodies identify funding each year to accomplish the laws they have passed.

The funding that is provided through these bodies enables programs like Women Against Abuse and others to continue to provide quality services to people who are experiencing domestic violence.

Therefore, Women Against Abuse, Inc. plays a crucial role in providing input, guidance, and leadership in legislative matters concerning domestic violence. We participate throughout the legislative process to ensure our elected officials are making decisions that create strong protections for survivors and hold perpetrators of domestic violence accountable.

The Public Policy team works diligently to be an effective liaison between our elected officials, and the clients and community of Women Against Abuse. Throughout the process there are many opportunities for you to get involved and allow your voice to be heard. By following our Advocacy Alerts, attending our Advocacy Days in Harrisburg, and writing and calling your elected officials, you can help us protect survivors of domestic violence.

Check out our resources below to find out more information on the legislative process and how to get involved!

Breakdown of PA's Legislative Process

Detailed version of how a bill becomes a law

School House Rock- "How a Bill Becomes a Law"

Get involved!

To contact your elected official about issues related to domestic violence, visit our Take Action page!

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Doug Schoenberg’s Story

Doug Schoenberg, Co-Founder and CEO of SofterWare, Inc., recently provided a challenge match through the Schoenberg Family Charitable Fund as an incentive to help Women Against Abuse gain new monthly donors.

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Lonnie & Jordan’s Story

The life-saving work that Women Against Abuse achieves each day would not be possible without the support of advocates in the community.

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Sheila’s Story

Sheila arrived at the Women Against Abuse Emergency Shelter after waking up in a hospital emergency room.

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Candace's Story

When people consider domestic violence (DV), they often think of the adult victim/survivor. But what about the children who have seen or experienced the abuse; the boys, girls and young adults who have been afraid in their own home? Candace, who worked as a therapist at Women Against Abuse, witnessed her mother being abused for many years, is choosing to share her story to shine a light on this little told aspect of DV. These are her words.

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Chanda's Story

Chanda is a survivor and advocate for Women Against Abuse. She first shared her story at the 2017 iPledge Campaign press conference.

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Un nuevo comienzo para Natalie

Ingresar al albergue seguro de Women Against Abuse, realmente irse para siempre, fue la culminación de 10 años de abuso en la relación; más discusiones, amenazas y noches sin dormir de las que Natalie* podría contar. Tenían hijos en común, compartían la vida y dependían del otro económicamente. No era fácil ponerle un fin a la relación.

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Allison’s Story

Allison* cringed at her reflection in the mirror as she gently dabbed concealer over the bruises circling her eye.

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Lucia’s Story

Lucia* came to the Women Against Abuse emergency shelter pregnant and with five children.

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Trevor's Story

Trevor is a college student and advocate who shared his story at our 2018 iPledge Campaign press conference.

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William’s Story

William Spratley flicks through the text messages on his phone until he finds the one he’s been looking for. It’s from his 27-year old daughter, Ameya, and it’s the last words he will ever exchange with her.

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If you or someone you know needs help, call our toll-free 24-hour Hotline:

1.866.723.3014

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