California Crime Victims Groups and Lawmakers Push for $200 Million in Funding Amid Federal Cuts Fears

California crime victims groups and state lawmakers are rallying together to secure $200 million in ongoing funding to counteract potential deep federal funding cuts for victims’ services. Dozens of organizations across the state, including Sacramento’s WEAVE and Sacramento LGBT Community Center, are joining forces to urge lawmakers to approve the funds in response to an anticipated $700 million reduction in the federal Victims of Crime Act fund.

Assemblywoman Eloise Gomez Reyes emphasized the importance of the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) in California’s efforts to support crime victims. Without adequate support, victim service providers in the state could face devastating funding cuts, potentially leading to the closure of essential programs.

Over 20 lawmakers, including local representatives Kevin McCarty, Stephanie Nguyen, and James Gallagher, have thrown their support behind Reyes’ efforts to secure the funding. The 40-year-old Victims of Crime Act, funded by fines and penalties from federal convictions, currently holds a balance of over $1.4 billion. However, the looming $700 million in cuts could significantly impact services for victims of domestic violence, sexual abuse, elder abuse, and more.

While the cuts are not expected until the 2024-25 fiscal year, advocates are already expressing concerns about the potential impact on vital services. Jonathan Raven of the California District Attorneys Association warned that the cuts could be “catastrophic” for nonprofits and victims’ services, particularly those working closely with county prosecutors.

In response to the funding crisis, Assemblywoman Reyes and Assembly Budget Committee Chair Jesse Gabriel have introduced legislation to address the issue. Reyes’ Assembly Bill 1956, the Crime Victim Services Stabilization Act, aims to provide state supplemental funding when federal VOCA awards are significantly reduced. Gabriel’s AB 2432 proposes funding victim services by holding corporate wrongdoers accountable for their actions.

As California prepares to navigate the challenges posed by potential federal funding cuts, lawmakers and advocacy groups are working tirelessly to ensure that essential victim services remain intact and accessible to those in need.