Washington Department of Commerce launches domestic violence co responder grant program

Washington State is set to enhance its response to domestic violence through a newly established co-responder grant program, as discussed in the recent Senate Ways & Means meeting. This initiative, administered by the Office of Crime Victims Advocacy at the Department of Commerce, aims to provide critical support to cities and counties in developing effective domestic violence co-responder programs.

The program will allocate matching grants to local governments, enabling them to establish and operate these vital services. Additionally, it will offer technical assistance and training through a service provider with proven success in domestic violence response. A key component of the program is to assist grantees in navigating health insurance billing for domestic violence co-responder services, ensuring that victims receive the necessary support without financial barriers.

Funding for the program is projected to come from an additional fee on approximately 41,635 marriage licenses issued annually, generating an estimated $4.2 million each fiscal year. Of this, around $706,000 will be allocated for staffing and administration, with the remainder directed towards grants for local programs.

During the meeting, Senator Wagner raised questions about the distinct nature of domestic violence co-responders compared to existing co-responder models in the state. Senator Dinger confirmed that similar programs are in place in other states, highlighting the effectiveness of trained domestic violence advocates working alongside law enforcement to enhance community safety.

Public testimony underscored the importance of this initiative. John Awai, a retired police sergeant and community liaison with Project Be Free, shared his experiences supporting domestic violence victims, particularly within Spanish-speaking communities. He emphasized the need for culturally competent resources and education to empower survivors and improve their access to legal options.

As Washington moves forward with this program, it aims to create a more robust support system for domestic violence victims, fostering safer communities and better outcomes for those affected by abuse. The implementation of this grant program marks a significant step towards addressing the urgent needs of survivors and enhancing the state's overall response to domestic violence.