Friend,

Right now, we have a unique opportunity to support victims and survivors of gun violence. 

The Department of Justice (DOJ) is considering major changes to a victims compensation program (VOCA) that would expand access and provide life-saving resources. But for these changes to go into effect, the federal government first needs to hear from the American public and know that we support this effort. 

That’s where you come in, friend. The proposed rule is open for public comment until April 5. Will you send a message to the DOJ right now letting them know you support this rule? 

Too often, survivors of gun violence are left with crippling medical expenses and face barriers to getting the care they need. This rule would also address current inequities in the system that disproportionately prevent victims of color, particularly Black and Brown people, from receiving just compensation.

Among other things, the proposed changes would:

• Provide flexibility and clarity on which medical and mental health expenses are covered under VOCA
• Update the definition of “survivor of a victim” to appropriately encompass a broader variety of familial relationships 
• Prohibit the consideration of a victim’s alleged contributory conduct in determining claim approval, except in specific, extraordinary circumstances
• Clarify that states are not required to impose an evidentiary burden on victims of violence
• Prohibit the denial of claims based on previous criminal history
• Clarify that victims are not obligated to crowdfund or seek out private insurance before qualifying for VOCA

By taking action to support this rule, you can help provide more victims and survivors of gun violence with access to compensation to recover physically, emotionally, and financially. 

Gun violence is a public health epidemic impacting hundreds of people every single day in the U.S. Barriers in the VOCA program too often leave people and families without necessary support in their most vulnerable moments. But these proposed changes would rectify that. Please, take a few minutes to let the DOJ know that you support this important rule. 

In solidarity,

Team Brady

Brady
840 First Street, NE
Suite 400
Washington, DC 20002
United States

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