U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and John Cornyn (R-Texas) announced the enactment of the Victims’ Voices Outside and Inside the Courtroom Effectiveness (Victims’ VOICES) Act.
This significant legislation mandates that family members, legal guardians, and court-appointed representatives who advocate for victims in certain criminal court proceedings receive restitution from convicted defendants.
These reimbursements cover expenses such as transportation, lost income, and childcare incurred during the legal process.
“Under federal law, restitution is mandated for victims to cover essential costs like medical care, but this has not extended to those acting on behalf of victims who are minors, deceased, or otherwise incapacitated. This legislation corrects that oversight, ensuring justice for all victims,” stated Senator Blackburn.
Senator Cornyn added, “Family members and legal guardians bear significant financial burdens while seeking justice for victims of violent crimes, including deceased or minor victims. This law ensures they are fully compensated for their financial expenditures.”
The Mandatory Victims Restitution Act of 1996 already requires defendants convicted of certain offenses, including violent crimes, to compensate victims for a variety of costs, from legal participation to medical treatments.
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However, representatives of victims who are unable to advocate for themselves have historically faced challenges in claiming restitution for personal losses like lost wages and travel expenses. The Victims’ VOICES Act amends this, clarifying that these representatives are also entitled to restitution for their associated costs.
The bill received bipartisan support and was co-sponsored by Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.). Companion legislation was introduced in the House by Representatives Harriet Hageman (R-Wyo.) and Lucy McBath (D-Ga.).
Endorsements: The legislation is endorsed by several key organizations, including the National District Attorneys Association, Raven, the National Children’s Alliance, Major County Sheriffs of America, the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN), National Native American Law Enforcement Association, and the National Organization for Victim Advocacy (NOVA).
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