This interim rule conforms HUD's regulations to the self- implementing provisions of the statutory protections for victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking provided by the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), as recently amended. These new protections apply to families applying for or receiving rental assistance under HUD's public housing and tenant-based and project-based Section 8 programs. The primary objectives of VAWA are to reduce violence against women and to protect the safety and confidentiality of victims of domestic violence and abuse.