Removes Requirement That Victims Provide Law Enforcement Documentation to Receive Compensation and Expands the Time Frame for Victims to File a Compensation Claim
Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation S.214A/A.2105A to expand eligibility to victim compensation funds for victims and survivors of crime. The bill removes the requirement that victims provide documentation from law enforcement in order to be eligible for compensation and expands the window of time in which a victim can file a compensation claim.
“We’re making it easier for victims and survivors of crime to access the compensation available to them,” Governor Hochul said. “As victims recover, this legislation will support New Yorkers in their time of need and ensure that they can receive the benefits they deserve.”
Legislation S.214A/A.2105A expands eligibility for victims and survivors of crime to access victim compensation funds by removing the requirement that victims must report to law enforcement and provide corresponding documentation to be eligible to receive compensation. The legislation also allows victims to provide alternative forms of evidence that would show that a qualifying crime occurred.
State Senator Zellnor Myrie said, “I'm proud to have sponsored this legislation, which cuts the red tape for victims and survivors of crime and helps ensure they will get the resources to which they are entitled. When an act of violence does occur, victims and their families need our support- not red tape. I thank my partner Assembly Member Demond Meeks and Governor Hochul for standing with crime victims and survivors.”
Assemblymember Demond Meeks said, “Thank you, Governor Kathy Hochul, for ensuring that all survivors in our state receive fair access to victim compensation by signing the Fair Access to Victim Compensation Act into law. This legislation will remove the unjust barriers victims and survivors of crime face when trying to access meaningful resources and will expand access to the victim compensation funds survivors need to rebuild their lives after trauma. As the Assembly sponsor of this legislation, it has been a privilege to work alongside Senate sponsor Zellnor Myrie, advocates, and survivors to get this crucial piece of legislation across the finish line.”