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SB 5362

Concerning victims of crime act funding.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Manka Dhingra and 5 co-sponsors

SB 5362 restructures Washington's Victims of Crime Act funding mechanisms, now under fiscal review with implications for crime victim service availability and resource allocation statewide.

Public hearing in the Senate Committee on Ways & Means at 1:30 PM.
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Bill Summary · SB 5362

Legislative bill overview

SB 5362 modifies funding mechanisms and allocations under Washington's Victims of Crime Act (VOCA), which provides financial support to crime victims for services like counseling, emergency shelter, and legal advocacy. The bill has advanced through the Senate Law & Justice Committee with a substitute version and is now under fiscal review in the Ways & Means Committee, indicating the measure involves budget implications.

Why is this important

Crime victim services depend on stable, adequate funding to operate. Changes to how VOCA funds are distributed or collected directly affect the capacity of victim assistance organizations across Washington to serve survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, and other crimes. The bill's progression through fiscal review suggests it may involve new funding sources, reallocation of existing resources, or expanded eligibility criteria.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding source clarity: Without seeing the bill text, it's unclear whether new revenues are being dedicated to VOCA or existing funds are being redirected from other programs, which could trigger opposition from other stakeholders
  • Eligibility and scope changes: Expansions in who qualifies for victim services could increase program costs, creating tension between advocates wanting broader access and budget-conscious lawmakers
  • Implementation timeline and administration: Restructuring victim service funding mechanisms may burden nonprofits and government agencies managing distribution if transition periods are inadequate

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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