U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and John Cornyn (R-Texas) have introduced the Victim Voice Act, which provides a powerful voice for victims in and out of courtrooms.
This important law requires that family members, legal guardians, and court-appointed representatives who represent victims in certain criminal court proceedings may receive compensation from convicted defendants.
These reimbursements can include expenses such as travel, loss of income, and child care incurred during the legal process.
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“Federal law requires that compensation be provided to victims to cover necessary expenses such as medical bills, but this does not apply to representatives of victims who are minors, deceased, or otherwise incapacitated. This legislation corrects that oversight and ensures justice for all victims,” said Senator Blackburn.
Senator Cornyn added, “Family members and legal guardians bear a significant financial burden when seeking justice for victims of violent crimes, including those who have died or are minors. This legislation will ensure that they are fully compensated for the financial expenses they incur.”
The 1996 Mandatory Victim Reparations Act already requires defendants convicted of certain crimes, including violent crimes, to compensate victims for a range of expenses, from participating in the trial to medical care.
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However, in situations where victims’ representatives have not been able to assert their rights themselves, it has previously been difficult for them to claim compensation for personal losses such as lost wages and travel expenses. The Victims’ Voice Act fixes this, making it clear that these representatives are also entitled to compensation for related expenses.
The bill has bipartisan support and is cosponsored by Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Connecticut) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-Iowa), with a companion bill introduced in the House of Representatives by Reps. Harriet Hageman (R-Wyo.) and Lucy McBath (D-Ga.).
Supporting Organizations: This bill is supported by several major organizations, including the National District Attorneys Association, RAVEN, the National Children’s Alliance, the National Association of Major County Sheriffs, the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), the National Native American Law Enforcement Association, and the National Organization for Victim Advocacy (NOVA).
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