California Victim Compensation Board marks 60 years aiding over 1.5 million crime victims

The California Victim Compensation Board (CalVCB) held a meeting on February 3, 2025, to commemorate its 60th anniversary of serving victims of crime. Established in July 1965, CalVCB was the first state program in the nation to provide compensation to victims of violent crime. Initially, the board operated with a small team of three employees and awarded $194,000 in compensation over its first four years.

Over the decades, CalVCB has expanded significantly, now employing 250 staff members and collaborating with local, state, and federal partners to enhance support for victims. Since its inception, the board has approved over 1.5 million applications and distributed approximately $2.7 billion in compensation. The compensation limit has notably increased from the original $5,000 in 1965 to $70,000 today, reflecting California's commitment to helping victims rebuild their lives.

The meeting highlighted key legislative changes that have broadened the scope of benefits available to victims. Notably, in 1993, family members of victims became eligible for compensation, and following the September 11th attacks, provisions were made to assist families affected by that tragedy. Additionally, the application filing period has been extended from one year to seven years, making it easier for victims to access support.

CalVCB also provides compensation for individuals wrongfully convicted of crimes, funds trauma recovery centers, and administers compensation for victims of forced or involuntary sterilization. The executive officer expressed pride in the board's legacy and its ongoing efforts to assist victims in their recovery journey.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored CalVCB's significant impact over the past 60 years and its continued dedication to enhancing the lives of crime victims in California.