This bill mandates the Victims of Crime Compensation Office (VCCO) to provide emergency assistance to victims of crime and their family members. Upon request, a trained employee from the VCCO will be dispatched to hospitals or emergency care facilities to help victims and their families access resources and complete the necessary application processes. To support this initiative, the VCCO is required to establish a 24-hour toll-free hotline and electronic mail service for victims to request assistance. The information provided through these channels will include a summary of available resources, details about emergency awards, and the availability of trained personnel to assist victims on-site.

Additionally, the bill amends existing law to require the VCCO to supply information booklets and pamphlets regarding crime victims' compensation, which must be posted in public places at police departments, courthouses, and hospitals. This information will also include resources for victims of sexual offenses, such as the location of rape crisis centers and the assurance that victims will not incur fees for services related to forensic examinations. The bill emphasizes the importance of conveying this information to victims before medical examinations or police statements are taken, ensuring they have the opportunity to seek assistance from appropriate support services.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 52:4B-22