Increases the amount for awards made to crime victims; specifies certain items of personal property which are necessary and essential to the welfare of a claimant.
Impact
If passed, S00156 would amend the Executive Law, specifically sections related to the definitions and purpose of compensation for crime victims. By explicitly listing necessary properties for potential reimbursement and eliminating the requirement for receipts as a criterion for claims, the bill seeks to ease the process for victims seeking financial relief. This simplification aims to provide a quicker response to immediate needs of victims, aiding in their recovery and stability.
Summary
Bill S00156, also known as the 'Crime Victims Property Reimbursement Act', aims to enhance the support provided to victims of crime by increasing the monetary amounts available as awards for personal property that has been lost, damaged, or stolen due to criminal acts. The legislation is designed to ensure that crime victims can regain a basic standard of living by receiving compensation for essential items, including clothing, furniture, and appliances. It delineates specific categories of personal property that qualify for reimbursement, thereby establishing clearer guidelines for both victims and the administering bodies responsible for disbursing funds.
Contention
Despite its supporting intentions, the bill could face scrutiny from budget-conscious stakeholders who may argue about the financial implications of broadening the criteria for victim compensation. Critics might express concerns that expanding the scope of reimbursable items and increasing the award amounts could strain public resources. Opponents may argue that while aiding victims is crucial, there needs to be a balance struck to maintain state fiscal responsibility. Thus, discussions regarding its funding and administrative feasibility may arise as it moves through the legislative process.
Same As
Increases the amount for awards made to crime victims; specifies certain items of personal property which are necessary and essential to the welfare of a claimant.
Increases the amount for awards made to crime victims; specifies certain items of personal property which are necessary and essential to the welfare of a claimant.
Increases the mandatory surcharge and the crime victim's assistance fee which is levied upon any person convicted of a crime or violation in this state; creates a crime victim's lien which allows such recovery against a convicted offender in the amount of the unpaid portion of the mandatory surcharge or the crime victim's assistance fee; creates a crime victim's assistance account.
Includes the unaccrued portion of a non-schedule award in the amounts to be payable to and for the benefit of certain persons where a claimant was entitled to death benefits at the time of death.
Requires the office of victim services to immediately take such actions as are necessary to avoid the wasting of the assets until the expiration of all applicable statutes of limitation for a crime victim to bring a civil action to recover money or damages from such assets.