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Utah Homicide Survivors seeks operating support as VOCA funding falls
Summary
Utah Homicide Survivors described its multi-year support for families after homicide, reported recovering more than $18 million for 250 families, and told the committee federal VOCA grants are declining (about 30%), creating an urgent need for state operating support to sustain services.
Brock Best, executive director of Utah Homicide Survivors, told the committee that the nonprofit provides unique legal, therapy and social services to families of homicide victims statewide. He said the organization has recovered more than $18 million for about 250 families and typically maintains long-term cases (some lasting two to five years).
Best said federal VOCA funding has declined sharply (he cited a 30% cut in recent cycles) and that the organization currently carries more than 80 open cases, adding roughly 15 new cases per year. He asked the committee to consider operating support to keep doors open and continue long-term representation for families that otherwise would lack the resources to pursue restitution and benefits.
Senators and representatives thanked the organization for its work and asked about how recoveries are found; Best said recoveries come from life insurance, retirement accounts and other assets and that recovered funds are directed to families, not the organization. The committee did not record a vote on any appropriation request during this meeting.
Next steps: the nonprofit's operating request will remain on the record for appropriations consideration; committee members voiced appreciation and asked to be kept informed.
