0
0

Witness Security and Protection Grant Program Act of 2023

4/11/2024, 4:05 AM

Summary of Bill HR 475

Bill 118 HR 475, also known as the Witness Security and Protection Grant Program Act of 2023, aims to establish a grant program to provide funding for state and local governments to enhance witness protection and security measures. The bill recognizes the importance of protecting witnesses who come forward to provide crucial information in criminal investigations and trials.

The grant program outlined in the bill would allow state and local governments to apply for funding to support a variety of witness protection initiatives, such as providing safe housing, transportation, and security services for witnesses and their families. The goal of the program is to ensure that witnesses feel safe and supported throughout the legal process, encouraging more individuals to come forward with valuable information.

In addition to providing funding for witness protection measures, the bill also includes provisions for training law enforcement officers and prosecutors on best practices for working with witnesses and ensuring their safety. This training is essential for building trust with witnesses and ensuring that they feel comfortable and secure throughout the legal process. Overall, Bill 118 HR 475 seeks to strengthen the witness protection system in the United States by providing much-needed funding and resources to support witnesses who play a critical role in the criminal justice system. By enhancing witness security and protection measures, the bill aims to improve the effectiveness of criminal investigations and prosecutions, ultimately leading to a safer and more just society.

Congressional Summary of HR 475

Witness Security and Protection Grant Program Act of 2023

This bill directs the Department of Justice to award competitive matching grants to state, local, and tribal governments to establish or maintain witness protection programs in cases involving (1) a homicide, serious violent felony, or serious drug offense; or (2) gangs or organized crime.

Current Status of Bill HR 475

Bill HR 475 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since January 24, 2023. Bill HR 475 was introduced during Congress 118 and was introduced to the House on January 24, 2023.  Bill HR 475's most recent activity was Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary. as of January 24, 2023

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 475

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
1
Republican Sponsors
0
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
54
Democrat Cosponsors
48
Republican Cosponsors
6
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 475

Primary Policy Focus

Crime and Law Enforcement

Potential Impact Areas

- Drug trafficking and controlled substances
- Evidence and witnesses
- Juvenile crime and gang violence
- Law enforcement administration and funding
- Organized crime
- Performance measurement
- Violent crime

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 475

Witness Security and Protection Grant Program Act of 2023
To require the Attorney General to make competitive grants to State, Tribal, and local governments to establish and maintain witness protection and assistance programs.
Witness Security and Protection Grant Program Act of 2023

Comments