Efforts to renew the 1994 Violence Against Women Act failed to survive the last Congress . Supporters say the law sharply cut the number of domestic violence deaths . The bill would have made it a federal crime for someone who has been convicted in state court or federal district courts of one count of aggravated assault against his spouse, including battery and sexual abuse with intent House bill did n't contain those provisions , which activists say are necessary .
Efforts to renew the 1994 Violence Against Women Act failed to survive the last Congress . Supporters say the law sharply cut the number of domestic violence deaths . Senate wanted to extend protections for Native Americans , gays and lesbians . House bill did n't contain those provisions , which activists say are necessary .