Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell has successfully negotiated an agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) that protects access to critical services for survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence. This agreement follows a lawsuit led by Campbell, representing a coalition of 20 states, challenging the DOJ’s attempt to impose restrictions on legal aid based on immigration status.
The settlement ensures that funding from the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) and the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) will remain accessible to all survivors, regardless of their immigration status. According to an announcement from Mass.gov, the DOJ has retracted its previous position, acknowledging the necessity of these funds for vulnerable populations.
In a 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.” This response underscores her commitment to ensuring that support for victims is unconditional and available to everyone in need.
The VAWA and VOCA grants are essential for providing a range of services, including legal assistance for protective orders and custody disputes, as well as housing relocation support. These programs have been vital in helping survivors rebuild their lives. The lawsuit arose after the DOJ notified states that they would be prohibited from using VAWA or VOCA funds to assist undocumented immigrants, a move that would have significantly burdened service providers who do not inquire about immigration status.
As a result of the agreement, AG Campbell and the coalition have agreed to dismiss their lawsuit without prejudice, meaning they retain the right to refile if the DOJ attempts to impose similar restrictions in the future. This legal victory follows a prior successful challenge against the DOJ, which abandoned plans to implement illegal conditions on nearly $1.4 billion in VOCA funds.
Survivors across various states, including Arizona and New York, will continue to receive essential support without disruption. This resolution is a crucial step in ensuring that survivors can access the help they need during their most challenging times.
For further information regarding AG Campbell’s advocacy and the implications of this legal agreement, refer to the original report at Mass.gov.
