A recent article published in the California Budget & Policy Center reports on how supporting survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, human trafficking, child abuse, and more is essential. “Supporting Survivors: The Need for Stable Funding for Victim Services” highlights the very real threats that survivors in California are facing due to dwindling funds and anticipated cuts from the federal Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) Crime Victims Fund, as well as unconstitutional funding freezes. Without VOCA funds, survivors will not receive essential services like housing assistance, legal aid, mental health services, and more. 

The article provides clear steps that federal- and state-level governments and policymakers can take to better support survivors. On the state level, policymakers can step in and help fill the gaps left by the federal government cutting VOCA funds, like the CA Legislature did for the 2024-2025 budget year. On the federal level, policymakers can work to ensure that funding freezes do not occur while appropriating adequate yearly VOCA funding. These steps will ensure that survivors can continue to receive supportive services.