WASHINGTON, D.C. — Public safety advocates, crime survivors, and people with old criminal records are applauding both the House and Senate Appropriations Committees for taking important steps this week to support community safety and stability.
The Senate Appropriations Committee clarified that states can use existing federal funding through the National Criminal History Improvement Program (NCHIP) to support record clearance efforts. This critical clarification will help states expunge eligible old criminal records—providing millions of Americans with a second chance and increasing access to employment, housing, and other opportunities that improve public safety.
The House Appropriations Committee also issued guidance confirming that crime victim services—such as Trauma Recovery Centers (TRCs)—are an allowable use of Byrne JAG formula grant funds. These centers provide essential, trauma-informed care to victims of violence across the country.
“Alliance for Safety and Justice, in partnership with #TimeDone and Crime Survivors for Safety and Justice, urged lawmakers to expand safety and stability by increasing access to relief for people impacted by violence and the justice system,” said Shakyra Diaz, Chief of Shared Safety at the Alliance for Safety and Justice. “We thank Appropriations Subcommittee Chairs Senators Jerry Moran (R-KS) and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), and Representatives Hal Rogers (R-KY) and Grace Meng (D-NY) for championing proven solutions to public safety.”
Why This Matters:
- Record Clearance: More than 9 in 10 people with old criminal records are no longer involved with the justice system, yet face ongoing barriers to employment and housing. These barriers cost the U.S. economy an estimated $87 billion annually.
- Voter Support: 63% of voters across political affiliations and races support using federal funding to automatically clear eligible old convictions.
- Victim Services: Currently, only 55 Trauma Recovery Centers operate across 15 states, leaving many victims without access to the support they need to heal.
Congress must now finalize and pass these funding bills before the end of the fiscal year to ensure continued progress toward safer and more equitable communities.
ABOUT ALLIANCE FOR SAFETY AND JUSTICE
Alliance for Safety and Justice is a national organization that aims to win new safety priorities in states across the country. It partners with leaders to advance state reform through networking, coalition building, research, education, and advocacy. For more information, visit https://allianceforsafetyandjustice.org.
