Bill > SB788

This bill makes several key changes to Maryland's Criminal Injuries Compensation Board and Fund: 1. It expands the composition of the Criminal Injuries Compensation Board from 5 to 9 members, requiring the board to reflect the racial, ethnic, geographic, and gender diversity of the state, and including members who are survivors of violence, representatives of community-based victim service organizations, and experts in community-based violence reduction programs. 2. It broadens the types of evidence the Board can accept to determine eligibility for compensation, including police reports, medical records, victim service provider statements, and protective orders. It also removes the requirements that the crime be reported within 48 hours and that the victim cooperate fully with law enforcement. 3. It expands the types of expenses the Board can cover, including the costs of relocation, child care, and transportation related to seeking medical or psychological care. 4. It increases the maximum award amounts for various categories, such as funeral expenses, psychiatric/psychological counseling, and property damage. 5. It requires the Governor to include $7 million in annual funding for the Criminal Injuries Compensation Fund starting in fiscal year 2025. Overall, the bill aims to make the victim compensation process more accessible, comprehensive, and responsive to the needs of crime victims and their families.