Washington State AG Files Lawsuit Against Trump Administration Over Restrictions on Crime Victim Funds
Olympia, WA – August 18, 2025 – Washington State Attorney General Bob Ferguson announced today that the state has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, challenging what the Attorney General’s office describes as illegal conditions imposed on federal funds designated for victims of crime. The lawsuit asserts that these new requirements unlawfully restrict how these vital resources can be used to support survivors.
The funds in question are part of the Victims of Crime Act (VCA) grant program, which provides critical financial assistance to states to help victims of crime access essential services. These services can include counseling, legal advocacy, medical assistance, and relocation support. For years, these federal dollars have been instrumental in bolstering Washington’s efforts to aid those who have experienced trauma and injustice.
According to the Attorney General’s office, the Trump administration recently implemented new directives that place significant limitations on how VCA funds can be utilized. These restrictions, the lawsuit contends, directly contradict the established purposes of the VCA and undermine the ability of states, including Washington, to provide comprehensive support to crime victims.
“Our state is committed to ensuring that victims of crime receive the support and resources they need to heal and rebuild their lives,” stated Attorney General Ferguson. “The Trump administration’s actions are a harmful overreach that jeopardizes the very services designed to help the most vulnerable members of our communities. We are taking legal action to defend the integrity of this essential funding and protect the rights of crime victims in Washington.”
The lawsuit specifically argues that the new conditions imposed by the administration are not authorized by the VCA statute and represent an unlawful attempt to expand federal control over state-administered grant programs. It highlights that these restrictions could prevent Washington from funding programs that have proven effective in assisting victims, potentially leaving many without crucial support.
The Attorney General’s office has been a strong advocate for victims’ rights and has consistently worked to ensure that federal funding is used effectively and equitably. This legal challenge underscores Washington’s dedication to upholding its commitment to survivors and ensuring that federal mandates do not impede their access to necessary assistance. The state is seeking a court order to block the implementation of these restrictive conditions, allowing Washington to continue utilizing VCA funds in accordance with the program’s original intent and the needs of its crime victims.
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