California Attorney General Rob Bonta has joined a multistate coalition to support a lawsuit challenging conditions imposed by the U.S. Department of Justice on Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) grants. The amicus brief, submitted in the case of Rhode Island Coalition Against Domestic Violence v. Bondi, argues that the federal government is unlawfully adding new rules to domestic violence and sexual assault grants, which could jeopardize services for victims.
“Violence Against Women Act grants provide a critical safety net for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault across California,” said Attorney General Bonta. “The Trump Administration’s politically driven restrictions on accessing these grants are not only unlawful, but they also put lives at risk. Survivors deserve support free from discrimination and interference, not confusing mandates that jeopardize their access to help when they need it most.”
The U.S. DOJ’s new rules prohibit organizations from using funds to “promote gender identity” or “DEI programs,” while still requiring them to serve all victims and adhere to anti-discrimination laws. This creates challenges for service providers and may leave many victims without necessary assistance.
Plaintiffs argue that these conditions exceed the statutory authority of the U.S. DOJ, are arbitrary and capricious, and violate constitutional rights such as those outlined in the First and Fifth Amendments.
The attorneys general involved in the brief contend that reinstating funding during ongoing litigation serves public interest due to its importance in training law enforcement, improving victim services for underserved populations, and aiding victims with immigration issues.
Attorney General Bonta is joined by his counterparts from Rhode Island, Colorado, District of Columbia, Arizona, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Vermont, Washington, and Wisconsin.
A copy of the amicus brief is available pending court approval.
