Treasurer Diossa Joins Governor McKee for Ceremonial Signing of Bills Expanding Support for Victims of Crime

Treasurer Diossa Joins Governor McKee for Ceremonial Signing of Bills Expanding Support for Victims of Crime

Published on Tuesday, July 21, 2026

PROVIDENCE, R.I. - Rhode Island General Treasurer James A. Diossa joined Governor Daniel McKee, members of the General Assembly, victim advocates, and community leaders today for a ceremonial signing of four bills that strengthen Rhode Island's Crime Victim Compensation Program and reinforce accountability in public service.

The legislation expands access to critical services for victims of crime, increases financial support for survivors seeking safety, and strengthens public trust through enhanced accountability measures.

"As Treasurer, I have the privilege of overseeing Rhode Island's Crime Victim Compensation Program, and I have seen firsthand how important these resources are for individuals and families trying to rebuild their lives after experiencing unimaginable trauma," said Treasurer James A. Diossa. "These new laws represent meaningful progress toward a more compassionate and responsive system-one that recognizes the needs of victims, removes barriers to support, and ensures they receive the assistance they deserve. I want to thank Governor McKee, the legislature, the bill sponsors, and the many advocates whose tireless work made these important reforms possible."

"These laws reflect Rhode Island's commitment to standing with victims, supporting survivors, and building a system that delivers both compassion and accountability," said Governor Dan McKee. "I want to thank Treasurer Diossa, all of the bill sponsors, and advocates who worked together to advance this legislation. Together, we're making sure Rhode Islanders are supported during a time of need."

The legislation signed includes:

• Crime Victim Compensation Expansion for Stalking Survivors (H 7547 / S 3263): Allows stalking victims to be eligible for financial assistance for relocation or home modification from the existing Crime Victim Compensation Program.

"Providing resources for stalking intervention - such as relocation, new locks and increased home security - saves lives. With this bill, we are helping to ensure that financial means do not dictate a victim's ability to feel secure from their stalker in their own home," said Rep. Jenni A. Furtado (D-Dist. 64, East Providence, Pawtucket).

"This is an ideal use for the Crime Victim Compensation Program. Victims of stalking often incur significant relocation and home security expenses to allow them to live safely, and too often they deal with these financial and logistical burdens without assistance," said Sen. Matthew L. LaMountain (D-Dist. 31, Warwick, Cranston), chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee.

• Crime Victim Compensation Expansion for Hit-and-Run Survivors (H 7585 / S 2824): Extends Crime Victim Compensation Program eligibility to individuals who suffer serious bodily injuries as the result of a hit-and-run crash.

"This bill will help victims of this selfish crime recover and let them focus on healing rather than worrying about the expense of their recovery," said Rep. Brandon T. Voas (D-Dist. 57, Cumberland, Central Falls).

"The Crime Victim Compensation Program is a proven initiative that's crucially assisted countless victims of violent crime in Rhode Island, and it is only right that hit-and-run victims be afforded the same assistance and support," said Sen. Matthew L. LaMountain (D-Dist. 31, Warwick, Cranston), chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee.

• Increase to Crime Victim Relocation Assistance Cap (H 8155 / S 2832): Raises the maximum relocation assistance available through the Crime Victim Compensation Program, helping victims move to safer environments when necessary.

"Moving, particularly on an emergency basis, can be prohibitively expensive and difficult for people suffering in the aftermath of a crime. Enabling the Crime Victim Compensation Program to provide a more realistic level of support will make the difference for many, helping to start fresh in a place where they can feel safer," said Rep. Grace Diaz (D-Dist. 11, Providence).

"Better enabling survivors of crime to move to a new home is an important way of protecting them from the perpetrator and helping them recover, particularly if their home was where the crime took place," said Sen. Hanna M. Gallo (D-Dist. 27, Cranston, West Warwick).

• Pension Revocation (H 7656 / S 3296): Authorizes the State Retirement Board to revoke or reduce an individual's pension benefits if that individual is convicted or pleads guilty to a felony sex crime related to their public office or public employment.

"No one should be rewarded with a public pension for being a sex predator on the job," said Chairwoman Carol Hagan McEntee (D-Dist. 33, South Kingstown, Narragansett).

"This is a common-sense measure that will hold sex offenders accountable for their despicable actions," said Chairman Lou DiPalma (D-Dist. 12, Middletown, Little Compton, Newport, Tiverton).

Administered by the Office of the General Treasurer, Rhode Island's Crime Victim Compensation Program provides financial assistance to eligible victims of violent crime for expenses including medical treatment, mental health counseling, lost wages, funeral costs, relocation, and other eligible costs not covered by insurance or other sources.

Together, these legislative changes strengthen the program's ability to support victims during some of the most difficult moments of their lives while ensuring that Rhode Island continues to prioritize safety, justice, and accountability.

The Treasurer's Office thanks Governor McKee, the bill sponsors, the General Assembly, the Rhode Island Crime Victim Compensation Program, victim advocates, law enforcement partners, and community organizations for their continued commitment to supporting victims, their families and strengthening public trust.

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