State Agency Crime Victim Compensation Program - Nebraska

The reparations program was created in 1979. A Crime Victims Reparations Committee consisting of five members appointed by the governor, subject to approval of the legislature, meets quarterly to hear appeals of decisions made by administrative staff. The program administrator also manages federal victim assistance grants for the state. Chief, Grants Division: Nancy Steeves Administrator: LaVonna Evans FUNDING The program receives an annual appropriation, as well as 5% of prison-industry wages paid to inmates. The program also receives an annual VOCA grant. ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS Reporting period: 72 hours Filing period: 2 years Exceptions: Good cause Financial hardship: Most victims meet financial need test based on financial resources (cash on hand, earnings, stocks, equity, autos, farm equipment) PROCEDURES After the claims specialist performs work on the application, the ease is presented to a hearing officer for decision making. The claimant must submit all bills within two years from the date of the incident. Appeals: The applicant has 30 days to appeal in writing. The Crime Victims Reparations Committee holds a quarterly hearing to make determinations on appeals. The applicant has 30 days to appeal the committee's decision to district court. BENEFITS Maximum award: $10,000 Compensable Costs (with limits) Medical expenses Mental health counseling: $2,000 Lost wages/support: $468 weekly maximum; parent caring for badly injured minor may receive lost wages Funerals: $5,000 Crime-scene cleanup: $1,000 Attorney fees: no more than 5% of award, paid in addition to the award Emergency: $500