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The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) provides protections for victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking. VAWA protections are not only available to women, but are available equally to all individuals regardless of sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is the Federal agency that oversees the Housing Choice Voucher program compliance with VAWA.

If you are receiving assistance under the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program, you may not be denied assistance, terminated from participation, or be evicted from your rental housing because you are or have been a victim of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking.

If you are a Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program applicant, you cannot be denied admission or denied assistance because you are or have been a victim of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking.

The following are important documents under VAWA:

Find them here.

  • Notice of Occupancy Rights explains the protections provided to victims and how to request them.
  • Owner Notice of Occupancy Rights and Obligations explains the obligations under VAWA for owners, property managers, and landlords who have HCV Housing Assistance Payment contracts with Decatur Housing Authority.
  • Emergency Transfer Plan identifies participants who are eligible for an emergency transfer, the documentation needed to request an emergency transfer, confidentiality protections, how an emergency transfer may occur, and guidance to participants on safety and security.