State Agency Crime Victim Compensation Program - Maryland

Created in 1969, the board operates within the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services. The secretary of the department appoints 5 board members, no more than 4 of whom may be from the same political party, with the approval of the governor and the advice and consent of the Senate. One board member must be an attorney. Terms are 5 years, with 3 members serving non-overlapping terms. Erecutive Director: Esther Scaljon Board: Benjamin Wolmon (chairman), George W. Donadoni, McNeal Brockington, Samuel T. Daniels, Sr., Jane L. Brown FUNDING The program receives an annual appropriation, as well as one half of assessments of $40 against adult offenders and $30 against juvenile offenders. A VOCA grant is received annually. ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS Reporting period: 48 hours Filing period: 180 days Exceptions: Good cause; requirements may be waived for child victims Minimum loss: $100 Financial hardship: Serious financial hardship must be demonstrated PROCEDURES Board members individually review claims prepared by program staff. Three signatures are required for a decision to be rendered. Notice of the decision is sent to the applicant. If the applicant accepts, the program makes payment. Appeals: Applicant has 15 days to seek reconsideration by the board, and 30 days to ask for a hearing of the full board. A further appeal may be taken in the circuit court. BENEFITS Maximum award: $45,000 Compensable Costs (with limits) Medical expenses Mental health counseling: $2,000 Lost wages/support Funerals: $2,500 Attorney fees: board determines, only in lost-wage cases Emergency: $1,000 Maryland