Source: TWCNews

UTICA, N.Y. -- Domestic violence plagues many families and communities. October is domestic violence awareness month and U.S. Representative Richard Hanna said the government can do more to help international victims.

Hanna's urging Congress to pass the International Violence Against Women Act.

The legislation would allow American agencies abroad to support and protect victims in at least five countries where the problem is severe. It would also work to bring perpetrators to justice.

According to the World Health Organization, one in three women world wide is the victim 
of gender based violence.

Hanna said the legislation has been sitting in Congress for years, but if passed, would make the U.S. a leader against domestic violence.

"It speaks to our humanity. It speaks to our willingness to send the world a message about who we are and what we stand for. It's not about money, it's not an expensive bill. It's about setting a standard," said Hanna.

The Violence Against Women Act was established in the U.S. in 1994. It was renewed last year and serves as a model for the the international version.