Number: RS21259 Title: Violence Against Women Office: Its History and Legislative Proposals in the 107th Congress Authors: Garrine P. Laney, Domestic Social Policy Division Abstract: The 107th Congress passed H.R. 2215 and President Bush signed it into law on November 2, 2002 (P.L. 107-273). Among other provisions, the statute provides for the placement of the Violence Against Women Office (VAWO) within the Department of Justice (DOJ). Despite enactment of this law, the placement of VAWO continues to be an issue. VAWO remains in the Office of Justice Programs and reports to an Assistant Attorney General. Reportedly, DOJ insists that the statutes language on placement of VAWO is open to interpretation. DOJ, however, states that VAWO will be moved, but details of its placement are still being reviewed. Pages: 6 Date: Updated April 2, 2003