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Domestic-violence network warns of $4.2M shortfall as federal VOCA link looms
Summary
The Alaska Network on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault told the finance committee that a one-time state appropriation covering a VOCA shortfall will end in FY27, creating a $4.2 million funding gap for victim services unless addressed.
Juneau — The Alaska Network on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault told the Senate Finance Committee on Feb. 26 that a one-time state appropriation intended to cover a federal VOCA shortfall will be spent by FY27, creating an estimated $4,200,000 shortfall for victim services.
Laurie Morton, deputy director of the Alaska Network on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, said last session the Legislature provided $4,200,000 to the Division of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault (CDVSA) to offset a VOCA decline and those dollars will not be renewed. Morton said federal VOCA funding follows a formula based on the prior year’s state spending and warned that reducing state dollars this year would reduce federal funds the next year.
Why it matters: Morton said reductions in state funding would have cascading effects on services for victims and on violent-crimes compensation, which relies on VOCA dollars. She asked the committee to recognize the looming FY27 deficit even if no increase is requested for FY26.
Supporting details: Morton thanked the committee for holding FY25 funding at FY24 levels and said many providers operate 24/7 with funds that have not increased in several years. The deputy director cautioned that holding level funding effectively means programs are “losing ground.”
Discussion vs. decision: Testimony was advisory; the committee did not vote on funding during the Feb. 26 session.
Ending: Testifiers indicated they will return with more provider testimony in later hearings.
