Massachusetts AG Wins Battle for Survivor Services Access

Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell has achieved a significant victory against the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), ensuring that vital services for survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence remain accessible, regardless of immigration status. This resolution follows a lawsuit led by Campbell, who spearheaded a coalition of 20 states opposing DOJ restrictions on legal aid linked to immigration.

Under the terms of the agreement, the DOJ has withdrawn its previous position and will continue to allow access to funding from the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) and the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) for all survivors. This decision marks a crucial turning point for service providers who offer essential assistance to victims navigating the aftermath of violent crime.

Legal Challenge and Its Implications

The legal battle commenced after the DOJ announced plans to prohibit states from using VOCA or VAWA funding to support undocumented immigrants. This notice prompted immediate action from the coalition, led by Campbell, who emphasized that support for survivors should not depend on their immigration status. In her statement, AG Campbell remarked, “Faced with our lawsuit, the federal government has rightly decided to drop their cruel and unlawful restrictions on essential services that help victims of violent crime navigate their trauma and get back on their feet.”

The availability of VOCA and VAWA grants has historically been instrumental in providing survivors with a range of services, including legal assistance for protective orders, custody disputes, and housing relocation support. The coalition’s efforts underscore the belief that all survivors deserve access to these critical resources, irrespective of their immigration circumstances.

Following the agreement, AG Campbell and the coalition have opted to dismiss their lawsuit without prejudice, retaining the option to refile if the DOJ attempts to reinstate the contested restrictions. This resolution comes on the heels of a separate legal challenge that successfully compelled the DOJ to abandon plans to impose further illegal conditions on nearly $1.4 billion in VOCA funds.

Continued Support for Survivors

As a result of this legal victory, survivors across the United States, from Arizona to New York, will continue to receive uninterrupted support during their most challenging times. The coalition’s actions reflect a collective commitment to ensuring that all survivors have access to the resources necessary for recovery and empowerment.

The implications of this agreement extend beyond Massachusetts, as other states can now confidently utilize federal funding to assist all survivors, thereby fostering a more inclusive approach to victim support services. For further details on AG Campbell’s efforts and the impact of this legal agreement, additional information is available at Mass.gov.