Fairness for Crime Victims Act of 2025

The Fairness for Crime Victims Act of 2025 would protect funding for crime victim assistance programs by establishing new budgetary rules in Congress. The Crime Victims Fund, established in 1984, is supported by fines and penalties from convicted criminals and private donations rather than taxpayer money. It provides services to victims of crime, with priority given to those affected by child abuse, sexual assault, and domestic violence.

Historically, large amounts of money collected for the fund have not been distributed to victims. For example, from 2010 to 2014, approximately $12 billion was collected but only about $3.6 billion (30%) was distributed. The bill would address this by establishing a Senate point of order against any budget provision that would reduce Crime Victims Fund availability below a three-year average amount. Similar protections would apply in the House. The bill would allow exceptions for funding differences not exceeding $2 billion. If enacted, the bill would aim to ensure more consistent and reliable funding for crime victim services each year without legislative changes reducing available support.