Magaziner Rises in Support of Funding for Victims of Crime Act, Urges Colleagues to Stand with Survivors on House Floor

Washington, D.C. — Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02) spoke on the House floor in support of robust funding for the Victims of Crime Act, also known as VOCA. This program supports millions of survivors of violent crime through direct service organizations including domestic violence shelters, rape crisis centers, and child abuse treatment programs.

As Congress prepares to consider FY2024 appropriations bills, Rep. Magaziner urged his colleagues to support VOCA at the Biden administration's recommended levels.

Excerpts from Rep. Magaziner’s speech are below. Watch the video HERE.

“We have a moral duty to help survivors of violent crime by ensuring that they have access to the care and support they need. That is why I rise today in support of robust funding for the Victims of Crime Act, also known as VOCA. VOCA is one of the most important sources of funding for victims of crime, and particularly survivors of sexual assault.

“During my time as Rhode Island's general treasurer, I managed our state's Crime Victims Compensation Fund, which is funded in part by VOCA. During those years, we helped thousands of Rhode Islanders recovering from violent incidents with health care, counseling, reimbursement for lost wages and other expenses.

“I am particularly proud that we helped 300 survivors - more than 300 survivors - of domestic violence relocate to new housing away from their abusers. No doubt saving lives in the process. All of this was made possible by VOCA funding.

“These are necessary services. As Congress prepares to consider the FY24 appropriations bills in just a few weeks. We must fully fund VOCA at the administration's recommended levels. I urge my colleagues to stand with survivors, stand with children and support robust funding for VOCA.”