HARRISBURG, PA — Pennsylvania lawmakers have taken a significant step toward empowering law enforcement and supporting crime victims with the near-unanimous approval of the VICTIM Act (HB 1511). The legislation, which passed the House Judiciary Committee on Monday with a 24–2 bipartisan vote, seeks to provide critical resources that law enforcement agencies need to solve more crimes, close cold cases, and deliver justice for communities.
A Bill Backed by the People
Co-sponsored by Representatives Tim Briggs (D-Montgomery) and Joe Kerwin (R-Dauphin), the legislation establishes a grant program that will be overseen by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD). The program will allocate funds to local law enforcement agencies to hire additional detectives, enhance evidence analysis, and improve transparency with reports highlighting effective strategies and areas of improvement.
The measure has garnered overwhelming public support, as a recent poll funded by Arnold Ventures revealed. Conducted between May 7 and May 12, 2025, the survey captured the opinions of 800 Pennsylvania voters and found that 83% of respondents back the bill. Support remains consistent across political affiliations, with 83% of Republicans, 84% of Democrats, and 80% of independents expressing approval.
Addressing Unsolved Crimes
According to Rep. Briggs, Pennsylvania faces a critical need for solutions to address violent crimes that are often left unsolved. “Too many violent crimes in Pennsylvania go unsolved, leaving victims and families without closure and communities without justice,” he said. “Our legislation will help ensure law enforcement agencies—especially at the local level—have what they need to investigate and solve these cases.”
His co-sponsor, Rep. Kerwin, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the bill’s focus on giving families peace of mind and ensuring offenders are held accountable. “Families of victims are asking for resolution, peace of mind, and assurance that violent offenders aren’t free in their communities,” Kerwin stated. “If additional resources can help law enforcement close cold cases, let’s ensure we support them by providing those tools.”
Advocacy Groups Voice Strong Support
Advocates for criminal justice reform also applauded the VICTIM Act for its direct focus on improving public safety and building trust in law enforcement. Kevin Ring, vice president of criminal justice advocacy at Arnold Ventures, highlighted the broad consensus around the bill’s objectives. “Commonwealth residents understand that deterring and solving serious crimes is the best way to increase public safety,” Ring said. “While Pennsylvanians may have different ideas about what causes crime, an overwhelming percentage agree on the need to increase the number of crimes solved by the police. That’s what the VICTIM Act is designed to do.”
Greg Newburn, director of criminal justice at the Niskanen Center, stressed the importance of empowering law enforcement agencies with necessary tools. “Everyone suffers when crimes go unsolved and justice isn’t served,” he said. “The VICTIM Act will give law enforcement the resources necessary to catch criminals who today have little fear of consequences.”
Next Steps
With bipartisan support solidified in committee, the VICTIM Act now advances to the full Pennsylvania House for consideration. If enacted, the legislation promises to accelerate the resolution of unsolved crimes, restore justice for victims, and enhance public safety across the state.
By addressing funding gaps and emphasizing community priorities, the VICTIM Act aims to establish a framework where law enforcement can effectively adapt to modern challenges while earning the trust and confidence of the public it serves.
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