LANSING, Mich. — The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is celebrating the state's expanded Crime Victim Compensation program after going into effect one year ago.
More than 1,000 victims of crime in Michigan received over $5 million in benefits since August 2023. The benefits are designed to cover costs related to out-of-pocket medical expenses, lost earnings, funeral bills, counseling and other expenses.
“We have been able to help crime victims in Michigan get the assistance they need to aid in their recovery,” said Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS director. “The physical, emotional and financial impact of trauma can last far beyond the crime itself. The additional funding and expanded services, such as mental health resources, will help them as they heal from these traumatic events.”
The legislation, signed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in May of 2022, went into effect on Aug. 12, 2023 and was designed to provide a more equitable access to financial benefits for victims of crime in Michigan.
The program's eligibility requirements were broadened to include victims of crime who have been impacted physically, emotionally, psychologically or mentally as well as increasing the maximum award limit from $25,000 to $45,000.
MDHHS says that compensation claims have increased by nearly 50% since the program was expanded last year.
You can learn more about the Crime Victim Compensation program by visiting Michigan.gov/CrimeVictim.
