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!

Waa-balloons-4
Mike

Mike's Story

Mike, a former police detective with the Philadelphia Police Department, has been working as the police liaison for Women Against Abuse, so that he can help survivors in ways he couldn’t as a detective.

Read Full Story
Th-catherine

Catherine’s Story

When I first met my abuser, I was just 14 years old and he was 20. I thought I was in love, so I ignored the disapproval of my mom and sister.

Read Full Story
Justine-thumb

Justine’s Story

Justine got to know Eric in college, while working part time at a Virginia-based home improvement store. They began casually dating in 1999, eventually marrying in May of 2006. Looking back, her sister, Lauren, can see the red flags.

Read Full Story
Untitled design 79

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.

Read Full Story
Untitled design

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.

Read Full Story
Jamie thumbnail

Jamie's Story

Jamie shared her story at the 2019 iPledge Campaign press conference.

Read Full Story
Amy

Amy's Story

“This is not OK; this is not who I will be; I will love my children; violence will not be allowed in my home.”

Read Full Story
Beth_Huffman_headshot_for_website_300x300

Beth Huffman's Story

When a survivor's child was in trouble, Beth Huffman helped organize a press conference to get the story out on behalf of Women Against Abuse's Legal Center.

Read Full Story
Untitled design 30

Natalie's New Beginning

Entering the Women Against Abuse safe haven – really leaving for good – was the culmination of 10 years of relationship abuse; more arguments, threats and sleepless nights than Natalie* could count. They had children together, shared a life together, depended on each other financially. It wasn’t easy to break things off.

Read Full Story
Trevor thumb

Trevor's Story

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

Read Full Story

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

1.866.723.3014

Sign up for Action Alerts, Updates & Newsletters!