State Agency Crime Victim Compensation Program - Mississippi

Created in 1991, the program is affiliated with the Department of Finance and Administration, Director: Sandra K. Morrison FUNDING The program receives $10 for each misdemeanor, felony, and drunk-driving offense. Additional assessments can be imposed on convicted felons at sentencing. The program also receives a $3 per month fee from offenders on probation or parole. The program receives an annual VOCA grant. ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS Reporting period: 72 hours Filing period: 18 months Exceptions: Reporting requirement may be waived for good cause. Filing requirements are not waived except in cases of child sexual abuse; application must be filed within 18 months after report is made. PROCEDURES Program director performs all work on the claim, with the help of an administrative assistant. When director makes decision, notice is sent to the applicant; if an award is to be made, the notice informs the victim that payment will be made within 3-4 weeks. Appeals: Applicant has 15 days to seek reconsideration from the program director. If denied, applicant has 15 days to seek a contested hearing before the deputy director. Applicant may appeal contested-hearing denial to circuit court. BENEFITS Maximum award: $10,000 Compensable Costs (with limits) Medical expenses Mental health counseling: $2,500; maximum hourly rate of $125 for M.D., $100 for Ph.D., $80 for counselors and social workers Lost wages/support: $450 per week for a maximum of 52 weeks Funerals: $3,500 Travel: $500, to obtain medical or counseling services if provider is more than 45 miles from applicant's residence Rehabilitation: medical and vocational Emergency: $500 Mississippi