Bill > SB5362

This bill addresses the funding and sustainability of victim services programs in Washington state by establishing a dedicated Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) account in the state treasury. The bill recognizes that federal VOCA funding is crucial for supporting crime victim services across every county and for various types of harm, and aims to provide a stable funding mechanism to address fluctuations in federal funding. Starting in fiscal year 2026, the state treasurer will transfer funds from the general fund into the VOCA account, with increasing annual amounts: $50 million per year from 2026-2029, $60 million per year from 2030-2033, and $70 million per year thereafter, minus the amount received from federal VOCA funds. The account's funds can be used to support crime victim service programs, must be administered in conjunction with federal VOCA funds, and can supplement existing funding sources. The bill limits administrative costs to 5% of the account's funds and requires the Office of Crime Victims Advocacy to submit a report to the legislature with service data and funding recommendations every five years, with the first preliminary report due in December 2039. The overall goal is to ensure continuous, trauma-informed, culturally relevant, and high-quality services for crime victims, families, and communities.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5362&Year=2025&Initiative=false