Changes to Crime Victim Fund Approved by West Virginia Senate

The West Virginia Senate has approved changes to the state’s crime victim compensation awards.

The bill eliminates compensation for meth lab cleanup. In the past, property owners could seek up to $10,000 in compensation if a meth lab was discovered on their land.

The bill increases victim relocation reimbursements from $2,000 to $2,500.

It also states that victims of sex crimes cannot seek compensation if they refuse to undergo a forensic medical examination. The bill does extend the time period a sex crime victim can undergo an examination from 72 hours to 96 hours.

The measure has moved to the House.