State officials are sounding the alarm over a looming funding crisis for victim services in Washington, as federal assistance from the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) continues to decline. During a recent government meeting, representatives highlighted the urgent need for sustainable funding solutions to address the significant shortfall impacting services for crime victims across the state.

The discussion revealed that Washington's federal VOCA funding has dropped dramatically, with the current fiscal year award at approximately $17.5 million, a stark decrease from the peak of $75 million in fiscal year 2018. This decline is compounded by the expiration of state supplemental funds, which are set to end on June 30, 2025. Officials emphasized that the unpredictable nature of funding has made it increasingly difficult for service providers to maintain staffing levels and deliver consistent support to victims.

Commerce officials noted that they have engaged in extensive discussions with statewide partners and coalitions to explore potential solutions. A consensus emerged around the need for a long-term, sustainable funding model to replace the dwindling federal support. The proposed solutions include a call for the Office of Crime Victims Advocacy (OCVA) to take a leadership role in addressing these funding challenges.

The meeting also touched on the broader implications of the funding cuts, with concerns raised about the impact on community-based programs that serve victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. Many of these programs rely on multiple grants from the VOCA plan, and reductions in funding could jeopardize their operations.

As the state awaits the governor's budget proposal, officials reiterated the importance of addressing the funding cliff to prevent a crisis in victim services. The conversation underscored the need for a collaborative approach to secure ongoing financial support, ensuring that essential services remain available to those in need.