The bill introduces a point of order against certain mandatory program changes that would lower the funding available from the Crime Victims Fund below its three-year average. This stipulation means that if an appropriations bill threatens to decrease this funding, it cannot be considered by the House of Representatives or the Senate, thereby protecting victims' financial support and rectifying previous shortfalls in fund disbursement. The legislation seeks to restore equity to federal support for crime victims, ensuring they receive adequate compensation rather than facing budget constraints.
Summary
SB2661, titled the 'Fairness for Crime Victims Act of 2023', aims to ensure more consistent and fair disbursement of funds from the Crime Victims Fund. The fund itself was established in 1984 to assist victims of crime, drawing its resources from criminal fines and penalties rather than taxpayer dollars. The bill addresses concerns that significant amounts of money have been withheld from deserving victims since 2000, with over $10 billion not being allocated to those in need, particularly victims of serious crimes like child abuse and domestic violence.
Contention
Supporters of SB2661 argue that it is a necessary reform to rectify decades of underfunding of victim support services. They highlight the importance of ensuring that funds collected from convicted criminals directly support the victims who have suffered due to their actions. However, there may be contention surrounding the allocation methodologies and the fiscal implications of solidifying these protections, particularly if critics argue that it could complicate future budget negotiations regarding mandatory spending and appropriations.