Bill > SB1016

This bill establishes the "community violence intervention and prevention act" to create a grant program and a dedicated fund to address and prevent community violence, which is defined as life-threatening interpersonal violence outside of family or romantic relationships, excluding acts motivated by political beliefs. The program will award grants to eligible community-based nonprofit organizations or local government units that meet specific criteria, such as experiencing a high number of homicides or having a homicide rate significantly above the national average, and demonstrating a compelling need for intervention. These grants must be used for evidence-informed, trauma-responsive strategies that aim to reduce violence, interrupt cycles of violence, and expand economic opportunities, primarily focusing on individuals at high risk. Local governments receiving grants must then distribute at least 75% of the funds to community-based organizations or non-law enforcement government departments focused on violence prevention or community safety. The bill also creates the "community violence intervention and prevention fund" to hold and disburse these grant monies, and requires the Department of Health and Human Services to create rules for the act's implementation. This bill is contingent on the enactment of another bill, SB 1015 of the 103rd Legislature.