Modifies provisions relating to the "Crime Victims' Compensation Fund" and establishes the "Victims of Domestic Violence Fund"

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Marlon Anderson and 2 co-sponsors

Creates a new Victims of Domestic Violence Fund to provide targeted financial support and services, alongside modifying the Crime Victims' Compensation Fund for broader aid.

Referred: Emerging Issues(H)

#crimesandpunishment #victimsofcrime

Summary of HB 2781 (2026) – Missouri

Purpose and intent

The bill amends provisions related to the Crime Victims' Compensation Fund and creates a new fund named the Victims of Domestic Violence Fund. The overall aim is to broaden and clarify support avenues for victims of crime, with a specific emphasis on victims of domestic violence.

Key provisions and changes

Crime Victims' Compensation Fund (CVCF) adjustments

Modifies how the CVCF is funded, administered, and disbursed.
May adjust eligibility criteria, awards, allowable expenses, and the timeline for filing claims (exact changes would be detailed in the bill’s text).
Potentially expands permissible uses of CVCF payments to address a broader range of victim needs (e.g., medical costs, counseling, lost wages, relocation costs, or other crime-related expenses).

Establishment of the Victims of Domestic Violence Fund

Creates a new dedicated fund to support victims of domestic violence.
Specifies sources of funding (e.g., state allocations, grants, allocations from the CVCF, or other designated revenues).
Defines eligible recipients and allowable uses of funds, which may include emergency assistance, shelter services, legal advocacy, transportation, or other direct services for domestic violence survivors.
Outlines reporting and oversight requirements to ensure proper use and accountability.

Who would be affected

Crime victims who seek financial assistance through the CVCF could see revised eligibility criteria, broader eligible expenses, or faster/expanded access to funds.

Domestic violence survivors would gain a targeted funding stream via the new Victims of Domestic Violence Fund, facilitating access to services such as shelters, counseling, legal aid, and related supports.

Service providers (victim advocacy organizations, shelters, healthcare providers, and legal aid groups) may benefit from new or increased funding to deliver services.

State agencies administering crime victim compensation and domestic violence programs would assume additional oversight, reporting, and compliance duties.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Introduced and Read First Time: January 7, 2026.

Read Second Time: January 8, 2026.

Referred to Committee: Emerging Issues (House) on May 15, 2026.

The bill’s path will depend on committee action, potential amendments, and floor votes. As a reference, the Emerging Issues committee designation suggests it may be reviewed for broader implications and interagency coordination.

Notable considerations

The establishment of a dedicated Victims of Domestic Violence Fund could enhance targeted support but will require clear governance, funding stability, and safeguarding against misallocation.

Changes to the CVCF must balance timely compensation for victims with long-term sustainability of the fund.

The bill includes multiple co-sponsors, indicating bipartisan or cross-cutting interest in strengthening victim assistance programs.

If you’d like, I can provide a line-by-line analysis once the bill text is available, including exact dollar amounts, eligibility changes, and reporting requirements.