Since 2021, Common Justice, in partnership with a broad coalition of advocates, survivors, and community-based organizations, has been leading the push for reform in New York State’s victim compensation system through the Fair Access to Victim Compensation (FAVC) Campaign. Together, we have worked to ensure that Black, Brown, and low-income survivors are not disproportionately denied access to the support they deserve. Our efforts have always focused on removing barriers rooted in bias and bureaucracy, transforming the system into one that truly puts survivors first and honors their dignity, healing, and right to assistance. 

Thanks to our advocacy efforts, we are proud to see many of the reforms from our original legislation, the Survivors First Act, were enacted through the FY26 State Budget. These changes, which took effect on November 5, 2025, mark a meaningful victory for survivors across New York State and reflect the tireless advocacy of those who have shared their experiences and pushed for a more just and compassionate system. 

Among the most significant improvements is the increase in reimbursement for burial expenses from $6,000 to $12,000. For years, families faced the painful challenge of covering funeral costs that often exceeded the available compensation. In New York, the average funeral costs around $10,000, forcing many grieving families to take on substantial debt or go without a dignified service for their loved one. This long-overdue adjustment ensures that families can focus on healing rather than financial hardship. 

Another major reform eliminates the use of contributory conduct when evaluating claims for victims who have died. Previously, this clause allowed the Office of Victim Services to deny or reduce compensation if they determined that a victim’s actions somehow contributed to the crime that harmed them. In practice, this often meant that families of homicide victims were denied help based on perceived or alleged behavior, deepening their trauma and grief. Removing contributory conduct for deceased victims ensures that no family is punished or stigmatized when seeking financial assistance after losing someone to violence. This change acknowledges that every life has value and centers compassion, equity, and fairness in how survivors are treated. 

Additionally, individuals who incur costs for crime scene cleanup will now be eligible to file claims. This is a significant step toward recognizing that the burden of recovery often extends beyond direct family members. In many cases, friends, landlords, or community members have taken on this emotional and financial responsibility, and they too deserve access to support. Victims of scams, fraud, or other forms of financial abuse who report the crime to law enforcement and can provide receipts will also be eligible for up to $2,500 in reimbursement per incident, providing critical relief to those harmed by economic exploitation. 

These policy changes represent a collective win for survivors and advocates across New York. While the legislation that passed was not ours alone, the substance of what we fought for is reflected throughout these reforms. Common Justice firmly believes that our advocacy and the dedication of our partners played a key role in moving these ideas from proposal to policy. We applaud Governor Kathy Hochul, the New York State Legislature, and the Office of Victim Services for listening to survivors and acting to make the system more equitable. Most importantly, we honor the voices of survivors who have bravely shared their stories and demanded change. Together, we have taken a critical step toward a fairer and more compassionate victim compensation process—one that truly puts survivors first. 

Additional updates to New York’s Victim Compensation Program are set to take effect on December 31st as a result of the Fair Access to Victim Compensation Act. These forthcoming changes will strengthen access and support for survivors and their families. Check back soon for more information on these upcoming changes and what they mean for communities across the state. 

Tahirih A. Senior Policy Manager