Sen. Carney applauds critical funding for victims of crime in budget passed by Maine Legislature, signed by Gov. Mills
AUGUSTA — Today, Sen. Anne Carney, D-Cape Elizabeth, applauded the inclusion of vital funding for services that support victims of crimes, including sexual assault and domestic violence, in the biennial budget proposal passed by the Maine Legislature last week and signed by Gov. Janet Mills.
“Maine has a strong network of victim support services across the state, providing everything from medical care and counseling to legal advocacy and Maine’s 24/7 domestic violence helpline,” said Sen. Carney. “This crucial investment will help avoid catastrophic, across-the-board cuts to victim services that would have otherwise occurred with reduced federal funding. Mainers from Kittery to Calais depend on these programs and can now count on them to remain available and accessible.”
The budget provides funding for the statewide network of services for Mainers affected by violent crime, including survivors of domestic and sexual violence, child abuse, elder abuse and mass violence events. It also sustains vital roles within the Attorney General’s Office for victim advocacy. The coordinated response after the Lewiston tragedy, supporting over 200 people in their most desperate time of need, is an example of Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) funding in action. This budget also includes support for survivors’ access to legal aid, crisis counseling and emergency services and affirms the state’s commitment to standing with victims and survivors.
This year, Sen. Carney sponsored LD 1139, “An Act to Provide Funding for Essential Services for Victims of Crimes,” which received unanimous support in both the House and Senate. This bill would have provided funding for programs previously funded by federal moneys through VOCA. Sen. Carney sponsored similar legislation in the 131st Maine State Legislature following the reduction in Maine’s VOCA allocation, which was approved for one-time funding.
This most recent investment in services for victims of crime was included as part of a balanced, fiscally responsible two-year budget that lowers costs, protects Maine’s future and defends the rights and freedoms of Maine people. The first part of the budget, which funded baseline government services and avoided a government shutdown, was passed in March of this year. The Legislature passed the second part of the biennial budget — which funds initiatives that meet the needs of Maine people — on June 18, and the Governor signed it into law on June 20.
Part II of the biennial budget will take effect on September 24, 2025.
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