HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 2022-4665

HR 4665

ByRepresentatives Graham, Taylor, Dent, Griffey, Mosbrucker, Young, Orcutt, Boehnke, Simmons, Walsh, and Eslick

WHEREAS, Survivors of violent crimes and domestic violence often carry physical scars, injuries, and disabilities as a result of surviving these attacks; and

WHEREAS, According to the United Health Foundation, "America's Health Rankings in 2021," for every 1,000 residents of Washington, there were 2.94 instances of violent crime in the form of murders, rapes, robberies, and aggravated assaults; and

WHEREAS, According to the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs, over the course of 2020, Washington saw a 47 percent increase in murders from 2019; and

WHEREAS, The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence estimates that 41.4 percent of Washington women and 31.7 percent of Washington men experience intimate partner rape, stalking, or other physical violence; and

WHEREAS, According to the U.S. Department of Justice report "Socio-emotional Impact of Violent Crime," victims often face nonphysical challenges, such as the possibility of trauma and posttraumatic stress or socioemotional problems, affecting their ability to trust or function day to day; and

WHEREAS, The impact of violent crime often affects more than just the direct victims, devastating thousands of these victims' families and friends across Washington as well; and

WHEREAS, Law-abiding citizens are deserving of justice, rights, resources, restoration, and rehabilitation; and

WHEREAS, The Washington State House of Representatives recognize the importance of honoring crime victims because of the adversity they face and the resilience they exemplify;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives recognize the plight of those affected and victimized by violent crime, and honor those victims and the survivors amongst them; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to Victim Support Services.