Advocating for Change
A record number of Rhode Islanders are experiencing domestic and sexual violence. Each legislative session, Sojourner House advocates for policies that look to provide victims of abuse with greater levels of safety and support, and against measures that would cause them undue harm. This session, we have two major priorities:
Pass the V.I.C.T.I.M Act
S258 and H5390
Secure an Appropriation for Sojo
H5323 and S262
About the V.I.C.T.I.M Act
The Victims of Crime Trauma Informed Mobilization Act (S258, H5390) would create a dedicated $30M funding allocation for victim services in the state budget and establish a VICTIM Fund grant program to administer funds to qualified nonprofits. This funding would provide critical relief to victim service organizations who would be at risk of having to scale back their programs or close their doors if federal funding cuts continue. 27 victim service organizations support the bill, as well as the RI General Treasurer’s Office and the RI Police Chiefs Association.
About the Appropriation
This year, Senator Murray and Representative Casey have introduced legislation (S0262 and H5323) that would appropriate $500,000 to Sojourner House. This funding would be used to support Sojourner House’s Housing Development Program and provide safe, secure housing to individuals and families who are fleeing from dangerous situations.
Did you know?
Take Action!
Support these priorities by contacting your legislators to let them know victim services are essential to the safety and well-being of Rhode Islanders.