Funding Crisis Threatens Services for Victims of Sexual Assault and Other Crimes: Urgent Action Needed from Congress

States and local organizations that aid victims of sexual assault and other crimes are facing a funding crisis that could force them to turn victims away or set up waitlists for services. The problem stems from a cap on withdrawals from the federal crime victims fund, which has seen a significant decrease in available funds over the past six years.

Rape crisis centers, domestic violence shelters, child advocacy centers, and other organizations that serve millions of Americans rely on this federal funding to keep their doors open. Without enough money from the crime victims fund, these organizations may have to make difficult decisions about which victims to serve and which to turn away.

The cap on withdrawals from the fund is determined by a complex three-year average of court fees, fines, and penalties, which has plummeted by billions in recent years. While Congress has attempted to address the issue with temporary fixes, advocates are calling for a long-term solution to ensure stability and consistency in funding for these critical services.

Lawmakers, including a bipartisan group in the House, have introduced legislation to increase revenue for the crime victims fund, but more action is needed to prevent further cuts to funding. Advocates are urging Congress to prioritize this issue and find a sustainable solution to support victims of crime.

The impact of these funding cuts is already being felt in states across the country, with organizations struggling to keep their doors open and provide essential services to victims. Victims of crime are encouraged to seek help through toll-free hotlines and online resources provided by the Office for Victims of Crime.

As Congress works to address this funding crisis, the future of vital services for victims of crime hangs in the balance. It is crucial that lawmakers take action to ensure that these organizations can continue to support those in need during their most vulnerable moments.