Fitzpatrick: Advancing Victims Rights Critical Year-Round
Press Release
Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick (PA-8) released the following statement Tuesday in recognition of National Crime Victims' Rights Week (April 6 -- 12):
"This week, we recognize the rights of victims, survivors and families affected by crime and honor those who advocate on their behalf. National Crime Victims' Rights Week refocuses our communities on the important goal of not only tackling crime in our neighborhoods, but protecting our neighbors who are victims of crime.
Bucks and Montgomery counties are blessed with a number of amazing organizations and countless volunteers who strive to provide compassionate care for all those touched by crime of any kind. Groups like the Network of Victims Assistance (NOVA) and the Victim Services Center provide vital physical and emotional support services -- this week we also recognize their commitment.
By promoting reflection, hope and healing year-round when it comes to victims' rights we can take meaningful steps restore the balance of justice."
Fitzpatrick -- a member of the Congressional Victims' Rights Caucus - is a tireless advocate for victims' rights efforts both in Washington, D.C. and the Eight District. Working closely with local victims' rights organization, Fitzpatrick has led a diverse, bipartisan coalition in advancing victim's rights legislation in the House, including:
Victims of Crime Act (VOCA)
Provides funding to the Crime Victims Fund through money collected from penalties, fee and fines paid by criminals. VOCA fund rape crisis centers, shelters, counseling programs, support groups and case management services.
Victims of Child Abuse Act
Provides funding to the National Children's Alliance, local children's Advocacy Centers and the four regional Children's Advocacy Center programs that serve child victims of abuse.
Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), Reauthorization
Provides funding toward investigation and prosecution of violent crimes against women, imposes mandatory restitution payments from offenders, and supports to the Office on Violence Against Women within the Department of Justice.
Human Trafficking Prevention and Protection
Human Trafficking Reporting Act [H.R. 906]
Child Protection Act [H.R. 1690]
Human Trafficking Prioritization Act [H.R. 2283]
End Sex Trafficking Act [H.R. 2805]
Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act [H.R. 3530]
Jeremy Bell Act
Blocks federal funding to schools that knowingly hire or transfer teachers involved with sexual misconduct.
Passed the House as part of both the Protecting Students from Sexual and Violent Predators Act of 2013 [H.R. 2083] and the Student Success Act of 2013 [H.R. 5].
Source