Crime victims, threatened nonprofit organizations see funding commitment
SACRAMENTO—Assemblymember James C. Ramos (D-San Bernardino) today issued the following statement following a joint legislative budget proposal:
I am pleased that the Assembly and Senate have a joint budget proposal that includes rejection of some important public safety funding cuts. During a difficult budget year, it is critical that we ensure that the most vulnerable are protected. That’s a California value that we must uphold. We are committed to providing funding for the Federal Victims of Crime Act and ensuring funding for the non-profit security grant program. We will also remain watchful until a final budget is approved.
As chair of the Assembly Budget Subcommittee #6, I am happy that we are including a commitment of $103 million ongoing funding to backfill the deficit to the Federal Victims of Crime Act (VOCA), so that services providers can continue supporting victims of crime during periods of deep trauma and distress. These victims are our family members, friends, and neighbors. The VOCA funding is essential to helping them come through painful and life changing losses.
I am also gratified that we can follow through on an $80 million ongoing commitment for the Non-Profit security grant program to enhance safety and security at places of worship and other nonprofit organizations. Our places of worship are a place where all communities should feel safe and secure. This grant program is vital since we have seen increases in hate crimes and hate incidents in recent years.
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Assemblymember James C. Ramos proudly represents the 45th Assembly district that includes the Cities of Fontana, Highland, Mentone, Redlands, Rialto and San Bernardino. He is the first and only California Native American serving in the state’s legislature. Ramos chairs the Assembly Budget Subcommittee #6 on Public Safety.