Summary
Attorneys general from 20 states and Washington, D.C., have filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Justice. They aim to stop the department from withholding funds meant for crime victims if states don't follow certain immigration enforcement rules. The lawsuit claims these conditions overstep legal authority and conflict with the Victims of Crime Act.
Key Facts
- 20 states and Washington, D.C., are involved in the lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Justice.
- The lawsuit was filed in a Rhode Island federal court.
- It challenges conditions that tie federal funding for crime victims to immigration enforcement cooperation.
- The lawsuit argues these conditions are not authorized by the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA).
- VOCA funding supports state programs that help crime victims with various costs and counseling.
- The funds involved come from federal fines, not taxpayer money.
- The lawsuit aims to ensure crime victims can report crimes without immigration-related fears.
- It claims the administration is using crime victim funds to pressure states on immigration policies.
