Attorney General Raúl Torrez, representing New Mexico, along with a coalition of 20 attorneys general, has reached an agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to prevent the imposition of restrictions on services funded by the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) and Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). These services are crucial for survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence.
The coalition had filed a lawsuit against the DOJ after it attempted to enforce conditions that would have required survivors to prove their immigration status before receiving legal services. This move was seen as potentially harmful to those in need. The DOJ has now agreed to a binding resolution ensuring these critical services remain accessible regardless of immigration status.
Raúl Torrez said, "This binding agreement ensures that survivors of crime and their families will continue to receive essential resources they need to rebuild their lives." He emphasized his commitment to protecting victims' rights and warned he would take further legal action if necessary.
VOCA and VAWA programs have long supported survivors by funding various services such as legal representation, housing assistance, and rape crisis centers. Congress designed these programs to be inclusive, recognizing public safety depends on all victims being able to seek help without fear.
The lawsuit was initiated in October after the DOJ's announcement that VOCA or VAWA funds could not be used for undocumented immigrants' legal services. The new "Legal Services Condition" applied retroactively, affecting existing grants. Service providers argued this requirement was burdensome as they do not verify immigration status.
Under the agreement, the restriction will not apply to any current VOCA Victim Assistance or VAWA grant awards. The coalition has dismissed its lawsuit but retains the right to refile if necessary. Attorneys general from states including Arizona, California, and New York joined Torrez in this effort.
Information from this article can be found here.
