The restrictions are set to take effect October 31 and would apply retroactively to grants already awarded — some dating back years. “These funds help save lives and support survivors who are rebuilding their lives, from housing assistance to legal representation to counseling services,” said New York’s Division of Criminal Justice Services Commissioner Rossana Rosado. Advocates warn this could be especially devastating for victims fleeing abusive households — where abusers often control access to legal documents. Even citizens and lawful residents could be denied services if they don’t have the right paperwork on hand during a crisis. In 2024 alone, more than one million New Yorkers accessed VOCA- or VAWA-funded services — more than any other category of victim support in the state.