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JFAC grants $3 million one-time to child advocacy centers amid falling VOCA funds
Summary
The Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee approved a one-time $3,000,000 General Fund appropriation to the Domestic Violence Council to support child advocacy centers after a decline in VOCA and other federal funds.
The Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee on March 14 approved a one-time $3,000,000 General Fund appropriation for child advocacy centers administered through the Domestic Violence Council, citing declines in federal Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) funding and other grant revenue that historically supported these centers.
Alex Williamson explained to the committee that child advocacy centers provide forensic interviews, counseling, civil legal aid and other supportive services to victims under 18. Committee members described the centers as facilities that reduce trauma for children, preserve forensic evidence through recorded interviews, and support more successful prosecutions of child-abuse cases.
Senator Cook urged the appropriation, saying the $3 million would restore funding levels to recent historic levels and stressed the centers’ impact on prosecution and conviction rates. Representative Furness, who has visited a local center, described the centers as safer, child-focused environments that improve outcomes and investigative results. Representative Furness moved the $3,000,000 one-time appropriation; Senator Cook seconded. The motion passed by committee vote (total: 18 ayes, 1 nay, 1 absent) and will be sent to the Legislature with a due-pass recommendation.
Committee staff and members clarified that the appropriation was intended to offset declines in VOCA and other grant cash receipts, and that the appropriation was one-time to bring funding closer to 2023 levels. Staff did not provide an exact statewide baseline amount for current spending during the hearing; Ms. Williamson said federal funds remain a primary source but are decreasing. Committee members asked that the department and council describe how the additional funds would be used when the program reports back.
The committee adopted the trailer appropriation language and attached the usual conditions, limitations and restrictions language accompanying appropriations.
