Austin News

U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) along with U.S. Representatives Harriet Hageman (WY-At-Large) and Lucy McBath (GA-07) announced the signing into law of their Victims’ Voices Outside and Inside the Courtroom Effectiveness (Victims’ VOICES) Act. This legislation ensures that family members, legal guardians, and court-appointed representatives acting on behalf of crime victims receive restitution from convicted defendants for expenses such as transportation, lost income, and childcare.

“Family members of violent crime victims, including children and those who have died, should be reimbursed for the financial burden they take on to achieve justice for their loved ones,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This legislation will make victims’ representatives whole by ensuring they receive restitution from convicted criminals, and I’m glad to see it become law.”

Senator Blumenthal emphasized the hardships faced by victims' families: “Victims and their loved ones face tremendous hardship in the aftermath of violent crimes, and costly fees incurred while seeking justice only add to this stress.” He added that the Act ensures fair compensation for those representing victims.

Senator Blackburn highlighted a gap in current federal law: “Under federal law, those convicted of certain crimes are required to pay restitution to their victims – helping cover necessary expenses such as medical care. However, that is not the case for a person assuming the rights of a victim who is a minor, deceased or unable to act for themselves.”

Senator Whitehouse noted the financial challenges faced by families supporting crime victims: “The road to recovery after a violent crime can be costly for both victims and their loved ones who support them.” He stated that the new bipartisan law would expand restitution coverage.

Representative Hageman pointed out an existing issue within current laws: “Under current federal law, those convicted of a crime may be required to pay restitution to their victim; however, a person assuming rights for a victim may not be eligible for restitution.” She stressed that this issue is prevalent in tribal communities where protecting missing women and children is challenging.

Representative McBath shared her personal experience: “When I was seeking justice after my son was shot and killed, my loved ones stood beside me throughout the court proceedings.” She emphasized lawmakers' role in easing financial burdens on families affected by crime.

The Mandatory Victims Restitution Act of 1996 requires defendants convicted of certain crimes to pay restitution covering various costs incurred during investigation or prosecution processes. The Victims’ VOICES Act amends this law to ensure representatives acting on behalf of incapacitated or deceased victims are also eligible for such restitution.

This legislation has received endorsements from several organizations including the National District Attorneys Association, Raven, National Children’s Alliance, Major County Sheriffs of America, Rape Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), National Native American Law Enforcement Association, and National Organization for Victim Advocacy (NOVA).