NE Wyoming News

Earlier this week, the Victims’ Voices Outside and Inside the Courtroom Effectiveness (Victims’ VOICES) Act was signed into law by the President. This bipartisan and bicameral legislation, introduced in the House by Representative Hageman and co-led by Representative Lucy McBath (GA-07), ensures that a person assuming the rights of a crime victim is eligible to receive restitution for necessary and reasonable expenses associated with participating in the investigation or prosecution of the offense; attending proceedings relating to the offense; or transporting a victim to receive medical, physical or occupational therapy, rehabilitation, or other services.

Representative Hageman stated, “For far too many family members, the pain and stress of advocating for a family member that has been the victim of a crime is compounded by the cost burden that must be borne during the prosecution of the offense.

“I applaud the President’s signing of the Victims’ VOICES Act into law and am thankful that legislation is now in place to finally address this injustice and strengthen the ability to care for victims while effectively prosecuting criminals. I was honored to have the support of fellow Representative Lucy McBath (GA-07) in introducing this bill with me in the House, and U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), for leading the Senate companion.”

“When I was seeking justice after my son was shot and killed, my loved ones stood beside me throughout the court proceedings,” said Rep. McBath. “Devastation and hardship in the aftermath of a crime can have ripple effects across a victim’s entire support network. I know how important it is for families to focus on supporting loved ones through these traumatic events, and lawmakers have a role to play in easing financial burdens. I am proud to see this important bill signed into law by President Biden. Together, we are helping support victims and their loved ones.”

This legislation was endorsed by several organizations including: National District Attorneys Association, Raven, National Children’s Alliance, Major County Sheriffs of America, Rape Abuse Incest National Network (RAINN), National Native American Law Enforcement Association, and National Organization for Victim Advocacy (NOVA).

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Contact: Chris Berardi Sr., Advisor/Communications Director