The bill outlines the transition of the administration and funding management of the Massachusetts Victims of Violent Crime Compensation Program from the Attorney General's Office (AGO) to the Massachusetts Office for Victim Assistance (MOVA), effective July 1, 2025. This change aims to improve access to services for survivors and streamline compliance with funding requirements. MOVA, as the designated state administering agency for Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) funds, has established strong relationships with the Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) and is tasked with providing survivors with necessary information and support for applying for victim compensation.
Additionally, the bill mandates the Chair of the Victim and Witness Assistance Board to submit a report to the General Court and the Secretary of Administration and Finance detailing claims submitted for payment under the program. The report will cover claims from September 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025, and includes data on the types of claims and associated costs. The report highlights the need for additional staff and resources to manage the increasing operational demands faced by MOVA since taking over the program, as well as a request for additional funding in the FY27 budget to support these needs.