More crime victims eligible for financial assistance under state program

Michigan’s Crime Victim Compensation program will be more widely available to crime victims and their family members beginning Saturday. 

An expansion of the effort was signed last year by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. The aim is to broaden program eligibility requirements and to help ensure equitable access to financial benefits.

“Since I took office, we have invested $1.5 billion in public safety,” Whitmer said. “As a former prosecutor, this is a top priority for me and I will work with anyone to ensure Michiganders feel safe at home, school, work, and in their neighborhoods.”

Under the new legislation, the maximum award limit has been increased from $25,000 to $45,000, and more people impacted by crime physically, emotionally, psychologically or mentally may be eligible for compensation. In addition to medical expenses, counseling, lost wages, and replacement services, compensation will now be available for items such as residential security, bereavement and relocation-related expenses.

“We want victims of violent crime to know that they are not alone,” said Elizabeth Hertel, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services director. “Our Division of Victim Services is here to advocate for crime victims and their survivors and to help them deal with the physical and emotional toll that crime can take.”

Whitmer recently signed the Fiscal Year 2024 budget that included $30 million for victim services, marking one of Michigan’s largest and most historic investments in services for crime victims and survivors. In addition to funding other direct services, this investment will help maintain victim rights services required by Michigan’s Crime Victim Rights Act and Constitution through grants to prosecutor’s offices and direct compensation to victims through Michigan’s Crime Victim Compensation program. 

Whitmer’s office said the investment is crucial given the recent expansions and will help ensure a smooth transition as new benefits and eligibility requirements are added to the program.

“These expansions reduce barriers and create greater accessibility to financial benefits for victims and their loved ones,” said Robin Hornbuckle,  Michigan Crime Victim Services Commission chair. “We look forward to connecting more crime victims with financial assistance and thank our state lawmakers for enacting the changes necessary to make these benefits more broadly available.”