Costa Victim Rights Legislation heading to President Biden’s Desk to be Signed into Law

WASHINGTON - Congressman Jim Costa, Chair of the Crime Survivors and Justice Caucus, released the following statement after the House passed the Respect for Child Survivors Act to help victims of child abuse and strengthen law enforcement's response to hold perpetrators accountable. Costa’s legislation now heads to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law.  

“We have a moral duty to protect children from abuse and harm,” said Costa. “Our legislation ensures victims of child abuse have access to the essential services provided by Children's Advocacy Centers in the San Joaquin Valley and nationwide. All children deserve the care and support they need to heal from their trauma. As Chairman and Co-founder of the Crime Survivors and Justice Caucus, I am proud to fight for legislation that protects the most vulnerable in our communities.” 

The Respect for Child Survivors Act will formalize a partnership between the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Children’s Advocacy Centers (CACs) to implement the use of multidisciplinary teams (MDTs) when investigating child sexual abuse and exploitation cases, including in situations where the interviewed victim is now an adult. Multidisciplinary teams would be composed of appropriate investigative personnel, mental health professionals, medical personnel, family advocacy case workers, child advocacy center personnel, and prosecutors. This legislation was inspired by the FBI’s failings during the Larry Nassar investigation. 

This legislation also includes another bill led by Costa to reauthorize the Victims of Child Abuse Act (VOCAA), which provides funding to Children's Advocacy Centers to support victims of child abuse and strengthen law enforcement's response to hold perpetrators accountable. Children's Advocacy Centers (CACs) provide support, advocacy, and other essential services for children and families who have been affected by sexual or physical abuse.  

Costa led the House version of this legislation. He is a strong supporter of Children’s Advocacy Centers and leads the Congressional letter requesting robust federal funding for CACs every year. Costa successfully reauthorized the Victims of Child Abuse Act back in 2018. 

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Congressman Jim Costa is Chairman and Co-founder of the bipartisan Congressional Crime Survivors and Justice Caucus which works alongside allied organizations to identify, address, and elevate the needs of crime survivors through legislation, education, and public awareness.