The Massachusetts Office for Victim Assistance helps crime victims and survivors deal with the aftermath of crime through advocacy and assistance. The Board oversees the operation of the Massachusetts Victim's Bill of Rights and works closely with criminal justice agencies throughout the Commonwealth, including the victim-witness advocates in each District Attorney's Office.

Objectives

In Fiscal Year 1999, the Office will continue implementing the SAFEPLAN program in courts throughout the Commonwealth. The program supports trained, full-time, specialized advocates who assist victims of domestic violence in seeking protective orders against their batterers. In addition, these advocates provide safety planning, assist in the legal process, and make referrals to appropriate community resources.

Budget Recommendations

The Fiscal Year 1999 recommendation includes an additional $364,838 to fund the expansion of the SAFEPLAN program.

Budgetary Direct Appropriations

MASSACHUSETTS OFFICE FOR VICTIM ASSISTANCE
0840-0100	For the operation of the Massachusetts office for victim assistance	318,499
	Victim and Witness Assistance Fund 100%

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE COURT ADVOCACY PROGRAM
0840-0101	For the salaries and expenses of domestic violence advocates for the SAFEPLAN program, so called	481,470

Federal Grant Spending

CRIME VICTIMS ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS
0840-0110	For the purposes of a federally funded grant entitled, Crime Victims Assistance Programs	5,200,000

Trust and Other Spending

0840-0115

VICTIM WITNESS ASSISTANCE BOARD EXPENDABLE TRUST

5,000