Wagner proposes legislation to protect victims of federal crimes

U.S. Rep. Ann Wagner (R-MO) on March 2 sponsored bipartisan legislation to establish the federal Homeland Security Investigations Victim Assistance Program (VAP), which would provide support to victims of federal crimes, including human trafficking, identity theft, child exploitation, and financial crimes.

“Survivors of traumatizing crimes like human trafficking and child exploitation are too often left without vital support in a time of great need,” Rep. Wagner said. “This bill codifies the Victim Assistance Program to protect the rights of victims.”

The congresswoman introduced the Homeland Security Investigations Victim Assistance Act, H.R. 1527, with bill cosponsors including U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-TX).

If approved, H.R. 1527 would codify the VAP within Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and would require the VAP to provide at least one Forensic Interview Specialist and one Victim Assistance Specialist to each HSI Special Agent in Charge office; a Victim Assistance Specialist to every HSI office participating in a human trafficking task force or child sexual exploitation task force; and a Victim Assistance Specialist to every HSI regional attaché office, according to a bill summary provided by Rep. Wagner’s office. 

“The Homeland Security Investigations Victim Assistance Act would also ensure victim assistance specialists are better trained and more accessible to Missourians so victims have an advocate as they work to recover and find justice,” added Rep. Wagner.

Additionally, H.R. 1527 would require that the VAP provide oversight, guidance and training on topics such as victims’ rights, victim-related policies, and the victim-centered approach to victim assistance personnel nationwide.

“This bipartisan legislation will expand community and victim services to survivors so they can feel stable, safe and secure,” said Rep. Cuellar.

H.R. 1527 has been referred for consideration to the U.S. House Judiciary Committee.