Massachusetts AG Wins Key Battle to Protect Aid for Survivors

Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell has achieved a significant legal victory against the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). This agreement prevents the DOJ from imposing restrictions on essential services for survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence. The resolution comes after Campbell led a coalition of 20 states in a lawsuit against the DOJ, which sought to limit legal aid based on immigration status.

The DOJ has agreed to maintain access to funding from the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) and the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) for all survivors, regardless of their immigration status. According to Mass.gov, Campbell emphasized the importance of this decision, stating, “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.”

The legal challenge arose in response to a notification from the DOJ in October 2023, indicating that states would be barred from using VOCA or VAWA funds to support undocumented immigrants. This potential restriction could have placed undue burdens on service providers, who typically do not check for immigration status when offering assistance.

Impact on Services for Survivors

The funding provided through VAWA and VOCA has been crucial for Massachusetts in delivering various services to survivors. These include legal assistance for protective orders and custody disputes, along with support for housing relocation. The collaborative effort among the states underscores the principle that support for victims should not be conditional on immigration status.

AG Campbell’s groundwork has not only led to the DOJ’s agreement but also ensures that federal funds will remain available for all survivors in need. The coalition’s litigation efforts reflect a broader commitment to protect the rights and resources available to victims of violent crime across the country.

As part of the settlement, AG Campbell and the coalition have agreed to dismiss their lawsuit without prejudice. This means they retain the option to refile if the DOJ attempts to reinstate the contested restriction in the future. This resolution follows a previous successful legal challenge against the DOJ regarding an illegal scheme that would have imposed further conditions on nearly $1.4 billion in VOCA funds.

Ongoing Support for Survivors Nationwide

The outcome of this legal battle has significant implications for survivors throughout the United States, from Arizona to New York. Attorneys general from various states will continue to support survivors without the hindrance of new restrictions. AG Campbell’s victory highlights the ongoing need for collaboration among states to ensure that vital resources remain accessible to those who need them most.

For further details on AG Campbell’s efforts and the implications of this agreement, additional information is available at Mass.gov.