Rhode Island's Peter Neronha is co-leading a coalition of 21 attorneys general in filing a lawsuit to block new restrictions on federal funding to support survivors of domestic violence and other violent crimes.
The lawsuit challenges a rule barring states from using Victims of Crime Act, Byrne Justice Assistance Grants and Violence Against Women Act funds to provide services to undocumented immigrants, or others who cannot prove their status.
“When a victim of sexual assault or domestic violence seeks help, the first question we ask should not be about their immigration status,” said Attorney General Neronha. “First of all, as a matter of practicality, many service providers do not have the capacity or resources necessary to screen for such things. More importantly, under no circumstance should receiving help for crimes of domestic and sexual violence be subject to politically motivated conditions. Not to mention that dissuading survivors from reporting keeps violent criminals on the streets. These restrictions are unreasonable, unlawful, and we will fight to make sure they are blocked.”
Neronha and the coalition say the policy is unconstitutional and they are asking the court to stop the rule from taking effect.
(Photo: John Baibak, NewsradioRI)