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Children’s Justice Center warns VOCA cuts would eliminate critical services and staff
Summary
CJC staff told the commission that federal Victims of Crime Act cuts (10% this fiscal year and an additional 15% next year) already removed nearly $100,000 and will eliminate key positions and victim services unless funds are replaced; they requested local support and urged advocacy for HR 1652.
The Children’s Justice Center (CJC) updated the Utah County Commission on April 1 about the center’s services and the significant threat posed by federal VOCA (Victims of Crime Act) funding cuts.
Becca, representing the CJC, said the center receives roughly 40% of its funding from federal sources and about 18% from Utah County. ‘‘These VOCA cuts will not only be affecting the Children's Justice Center, but it will also be affecting the victim advocates and victim programs in the sheriff's office as well as the county attorney's office,’’ she said.
CJC staff provided a breakdown of funding sources: roughly 40% federal, 34% state, 18% local (Utah County) and 8% private. They reported current VOCA support at about $837,000 and said a 10% cut this fiscal year has already reduced funds by just under $100,000; a proposed additional 15% reduction next year would total a 25% reduction. The immediate effect is the elimination of the care process model administrator position (responsible for trauma and suicide screening). The following-year cut would remove a paid MSW (who provides individual therapy) and eliminate emergency victim funds, interpreter services and training.
Heather Allen, associate director for the North County center in American Fork, described the new facility purchase at 96 South 100 East and the planned renovations to make it ADA‑compliant and suitable for interviews, medical exams and observation. Renovation costs were estimated at roughly $1,200,000; CJC had secured just over $500,000 and is pursuing grants (Eccles Foundation $300,000, Centerland Foundation $200,000) and a community "100 campaign" to raise the remainder.
On legislated remedies, the CJC said House bill HR 1652 could route deferred and non‑prosecution agreement funds back into the crime‑victim fund instead of the general treasury, which would help restore VOCA resources. Staff reported the bill has gained traction but had been postponed for a roll-call vote in the House.
Commissioners thanked CJC staff for their work and expressed support; staff asked the commission and community members to contact federal representatives and senators to seek cosponsors for HR 1652 and to support local fundraising efforts.
The presentation underscored the immediate programmatic consequences of federal cuts and the county’s role as a partial funder while the CJC pursues alternative funding and legislative fixes.
