The Indiana chapters of Moms Demand Action and Students Demand Action, both part of Everytown for Gun Safety’s grassroots network, released the following statement after the Indiana Senate Corrections and Criminal Law Committee unanimously advanced House Bill 1292, legislation that would expand access to supportive funds for victims and their family members who have experienced violent crime, including gun violence. The bill now moves to the Senate floor for a vote. The Indiana House of Representatives has already unanimously passed this critical legislation.
“We cannot break cycles of violence in our communities until survivors of gun violence and their loved ones have the support they need,” said Stephen Miller, a volunteer with the Indiana chapter of Moms Demand Action who has had three family members taken by gun violence. “This bill will ensure that more Hoosiers who have experienced or survived gun violence receive critical financial support and access to necessary services. We’re grateful that the legislature has prioritized this important policy. The Senate should swiftly pass this bill.”
Victim compensation funds are a vital resource for survivors of gun violence, but legislative barriers exist that limit access to these funds. House Bill 1292 would address some of these barriers by expanding who is eligible to apply for financial reimbursement, expanding the types of expenses for which survivors can seek reimbursement, and expanding the definition of “cooperation with law enforcement” in certain situations.
Learn more about gun violence in Indiana here. Learn more about victim compensation funding here.
