In response to Governor Hochul signing S.214A/A.2105A into law, which removes the requirement that crime victims provide documentation from law enforcement to be eligible for victim compensation funds and expands the period of time for a victim to file a compensation claim, Speaker Adrienne Adams issued the following statement:

“Unaddressed trauma plays a harmful role in producing negative health and safety outcomes for communities, underscoring the need to ensure crime survivors are supported in their recovery and pursuit of healing. Survivors of crime in communities of color that experience violence the most are among the least likely to receive victim services because of bureaucratic eligibility restrictions. By removing barriers to victim compensation, New York can advance equitable access to critical services that help victims get back on their feet. The Council was proud to have advocated for the passage of this legislation and will continue its focus on expanding access to services for victims that too often lack access. I thank Senate Majority Leader Stewart-Cousins and Assembly Speaker Heastie for their leadership, Senator Myrie and Assembly Member Meeks for sponsoring this critical legislation, and Governor Hochul for signing it into law.”

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