Austin A. Davis 35th Lieutenant Governor of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania | Pennsylvania Department Of Education
Lt. Gov. Austin Davis has urged Pennsylvania's congressional delegation to increase federal funding for crime victims by supporting at least $1.9 billion in appropriations under the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) for the current fiscal year. In a letter addressed to the state's 17 representatives and two U.S. senators, Davis also called on lawmakers to back legislation that would stabilize the Crime Victims Fund.
Davis, who chairs the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency, emphasized the importance of these funds for survivors of crime. "While no financial assistance can undo their trauma, the victims compensation program - and the services provided by others standing with me today - can play an essential role in helping survivors rebuild their lives," said Davis. "Turning our back on victims is not an option."
Dauphin County District Attorney Fran Chardo, president of the Pennsylvania District Attorneys Association, highlighted prosecutors' responsibility toward victims. "The prosecutor's job is to seek justice on behalf of all," Chardo said. "An essential role is advocacy for the victims of crime, especially violent crimes. We need funding to ensure victims have access to the resources that give them a sense of safety and lead them toward a path of healing."
Other speakers included Deanna Weaver, Director of Victim and Witness Services at Lancaster County DA's Office; Tiffiney Hall, CEO of PosiTiff; and Dr. Paul Lukach, CEO and Executive Director of Crime Victim Center of Erie.