Letter to the Hon. Jerrold Nadler, Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee - Collins to Nadler: Schedule markup of anti-FGM/C legislation

Letter

Dear Chairman Nadler,

As you know, female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) is a horrific practice that creates lasting harm both physically and psychologically. FGM/C has no medical benefit and causes harm to women and girls around the world, including in our country. In fact, according to a report by the Centers for Disease Control, more than 500,000 women and girls in the United States are at risk or have been subjected to FGM/C.

Congress must take action to address this issue. Fortunately, Representatives Scott Perry and Louie Gohmert have introduced legislation, based on recommendations from the Department of Justice, to help ensure successful future prosecution of this barbaric practice. The Federal Prohibition of Female Genital Mutilation Act of 2019 (H.R. 3583) would clarify circumstances when FGM/C affects interstate commerce, in order to strengthen the law and clarify the federal nexus.

This legislation has been referred to the Judiciary Committee. We are committed to finding solutions to better address this barbaric practice, and hope you will join us in that commitment. We urge you to schedule H.R. 3583 for Committee markup this fall, to better protect women and girls.

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