Arizona Senate recognizes National Crime Victims Rights Week; Bullock urges continued support for survivors

The Arizona State Senate on April 27 read a proclamation recognizing National Crime Victims Rights Week and reaffirmed support for victim services across the state.

Senator Shauna Bullock, who sponsored the proclamation, told colleagues the observance coincides with Domestic Violence Awareness Month and stressed the need to "reaffirm a simple but powerful truth: victims deserve to be heard, protected, and supported, not just in moments of crisis, but through their journey toward healing." The proclamation, read into the record by the clerk, noted the 40th anniversary of the national observance and cited federal and state reforms that created funding and protections for victims.

Bullock cited partnerships between lawmakers and community groups, naming Amberley's Place and Janice's Women's Center as local providers and noting work with advocate Kaylee Kozak, whose efforts shaped "Kaylee's Law" in Arizona and beyond. She referred to earlier legislation she said lets victims of domestic violence seek lifetime no-contact injunctions following a felony conviction, saying the change reduces retraumatization for survivors who previously had to return to court repeatedly.

The Senate reading praised victim-service providers, law enforcement, prosecutors and community partners for their ongoing work and encouraged Arizonans to observe the week with programs that promote awareness and access to trauma-informed services.

The chamber recorded the proclamation into the journal and moved on to other business.