Advisory Council to the Crime Victims Board

Article 22, §623(14) empowers the Crime Victims Board to establish an advisory council “to assist in formulation of policies on the problems of crime victims.”  The Crime Victims Board established an Advisory Council on victims’ issues.  The Council is comprised of 25 members appointed by the Board who have demonstrated an active interest in or obtained professional knowledge of the problems, needs and treatment of victims.  At least one member shall be a victim/survivor who is not employed by a victim service agency.  Additionally, members of the Legislature or other individuals having a special interest in victim issues shall be invited by the Board to participate on the Council as ex-officio members.  To the extent possible, members shall be chosen to ensure representation for each geographic region within the state, and for the various disciplines in the fields of social services and criminal justice which impact upon victims.  Membership shall reflect the diversity of the state and its people.  In the spirit of this diversity, the Board shall endeavor to maintain a significant level of representation of minority populations.  The Board shall solicit nominations from the council, coalitions, and other interested parties on a regular basis for new members.  These nominations will be funneled through the nominating committee but voted on by the Board.  At the first meeting of the New Year, the council shall elect a President and Vice-President.   

The Advisory Council is structured into five standing committees.  The Committees regularly report to the Board on important issues impacting crime victims and also provides updates on assignments provided at the start of each new Council year.  The Council year is October 1 through September 30th.  There are three, two day meetings and if necessary a fourth one day meeting for Committee work. On day one, Committees work on issues and assignments and the Council meets as a group to discuss issues to be presented to the Board.  On day two, the Council meets with and reports to the Crime Victims Board and Executive Staff.  The Crime Victims Board is responsible for arranging meetings, minute taking and distribution of any information to the Council.