Governor McKee Signs Treasury Bill Into Law Helping Sexual Assault Victims Access Funds

Published on Tuesday, June 25, 2024

Providence, RI – Today, legislation championed by Rhode Island General Treasurer James A. Diossa was signed into law by Governor Daniel J. McKee. H-7449A/S-2767A, sponsored by Representative Carol Hagan McEntee and Senator Pamela J. Lauria, will enable victims of sexual assault to submit a medical forensic exam performed within 15 days of the assault by a licensed health care provider in lieu of a police report to establish eligibility for funds from the Crime Victim Compensation Program (CVCP). 

The CVCP reimburses victims for expenses resulting from crimes, such as medical and counseling costs, crime scene cleanup, relocation, loss of earnings, funeral expenses and more. Administered by the Office of the General Treasurer, the program provides up to $25,000 to Rhode Islanders to help them financially recover after having been a victim of a violent crime.

“This groundbreaking effort broadens the Crime Victim Compensation Program to sexual assault survivors,” said General Treasurer Diossa. “By allowing survivors to use a medical forensic exam in lieu of a traditional police report, we are working to empower more victims to seek the financial support necessary during a traumatic time in their lives.”

"I applaud the General Treasurer and his team, as well as the bill sponsors and our partners in the General Assembly, for putting forth this legislation, which can help support victims on their path to recovery,” said Governor Dan McKee. “Rhode Island stands with victims of sexual assault, domestic violence, and all other violent crimes, and we will continue our work to on their behalf."

“Often when a victim of sexual assault chooses not to report the assault to the police, it is because doing so is more than they can bear. That’s a victim who very much needs help,” said Representative McEntee. “The victim’s compensation fund should absolutely be able to provide the same assistance to them as it would to any other victim of sexual assault.”

“I have taken care of many victims of sexual assault,” said Senator Lauria. “There are many reasons that victims choose not to press charges. That does not make them any less a victim. They endure so much, including expenses that the Crime Victim Compensation Fund is meant to cover. This bill gives them another avenue to qualify for help through the fund.”

If you or a loved one has been a victim of violent crime in Rhode Island and you need assistance, the Crime Victim Compensation Program may be able to help. More information about the Program can be found at RICVCP.com [ricvcp.com] or by calling (401) 462-7655.