Bill > SB1015

This bill, titled the "Office of Community Violence Intervention and Prevention Services Act," proposes the creation of a new state office within the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) dedicated to addressing community violence. This office, referred to as the "office," will be responsible for administering a fund and a grant program, both of which are defined by reference to another act, the "community violence intervention and prevention act." The office will also track data on violence trends, offer support to local non-profit organizations working in eligible local government areas, and set statewide targets for reducing violent crimes like shootings, aggravated assaults, and homicides. Furthermore, it will establish reporting guidelines for grant recipients, act as a central coordinator for all violence prevention efforts in the state, and develop and share best practices for such programs, particularly those involving young people. The bill also specifies that the DHHS will establish administrative procedures for the office, including budgeting and hiring, in accordance with the Management and Budget Act. This legislation is contingent on the enactment of another bill, Senate Bill No. 1016 of the 103rd Legislature.