Raising awareness and encouraging the prevention of stalking by designating January 2026 as National Stalking Awareness Month.
Summary
This Senate Resolution designates January 2026 as "National Stalking Awareness Month." It aims to raise awareness about stalking, support victims, and encourage prevention efforts. The resolution acknowledges the prevalence and impact of stalking in the United States, citing statistics on victimization rates and the need for improved responses from various sectors.
Expected Effects
The resolution will likely lead to increased public awareness campaigns and educational programs about stalking. It may also encourage greater collaboration among service providers, law enforcement, and community organizations. Ultimately, it could contribute to a reduction in stalking incidents and improved support for victims.
Potential Benefits
- Increased awareness of stalking as a serious crime.
- Encouragement for victims to seek help and report incidents.
- Improved support services and resources for stalking victims.
- Enhanced collaboration among organizations combating stalking.
- Potential for policy changes and legislation to strengthen stalking laws.
Potential Disadvantages
- The resolution itself does not allocate funding for awareness campaigns or victim services.
- The effectiveness of the resolution depends on the extent to which organizations and individuals actively participate in awareness efforts.
- Increased awareness may lead to a temporary increase in reported stalking incidents, which could strain existing resources.
- The resolution does not address the root causes of stalking behavior.
- Potential for "awareness fatigue" if campaigns are not innovative and engaging.
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution aligns with the general welfare clause of the Constitution's preamble, as it seeks to promote the safety and well-being of citizens. While the Constitution does not explicitly address stalking, the resolution's focus on public safety and victim support falls within the broad scope of governmental responsibility. The First Amendment is not implicated as the resolution does not infringe on freedom of speech or expression.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).