Assembly expands victim compensation window and evidence options

Sponsor Meeks said the bill expands eligibility to access victim compensation funds by increasing the filing window from one year to three, removing a mandatory law-enforcement reporting requirement and providing alternative forms of evidence showing a qualifying crime occurred.

Opponents questioned whether extending the window and removing reporting requirements could reduce incentives to report promptly to law enforcement and hinder investigations. Representative Goodell cited a news report about a recent rise in major crimes in New York City and argued prompt reporting aids crime reduction.

Supporters and witnesses said many victims do not report promptly because of trauma or other barriers and extending the window removes an administrative obstacle to compensation. After floor discussion, the Assembly approved the measure on a roll-call vote.