New federal rule prohibits using money to cover legal services for certain victims of violent crimes
Democratic attorneys general from 21 states filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration for a new Department of Justice rule that restricts federal funds meant for victims of violent crimes who are undocumented immigrants. This rule prevents grant recipients from using funds for legal assistance to illegal immigrants, set to take effect on October 31.
• The lawsuit challenges a new DOJ requirement barring the use of federal funds to provide legal services to "removable aliens" or those without legal immigration status, with some exceptions.
• The grants involved are funded under various acts, including the Victims of Crime Act and the Violence Against Women Act.
• Filed in Rhode Island, the suit names U. S. Attorney General Pam Bondi and other federal officials as defendants.
• Attorneys general from California, Arizona, Colorado, Nevada, New York, and others support the lawsuit, emphasizing the importance of aiding all victims, regardless of immigration status.
• The legal services funded include assistance in family court, housing, medical bills, and help for victims of domestic violence and human trafficking.
• Critics of the new rule, including California Attorney General Rob Bonta, claim it violates the U. S. Constitution's Spending Clause and the Administrative Procedure Act.
• The lawsuit argues that linking legal services to immigration status threatens victim safety and empowers abusers.
The lawsuit highlights serious concerns about the safety of crime victims who are undocumented and argues that federal funding should support all victims. It underscores the belief that violence knows no immigration status and that all survivors deserve legal protection and support.
https://www.thecentersquare.com/california/article_8568489e-4691-4f45-8d77-ee3a9b575899.html
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