(a) In generalThe Director of the Bureau of Justice Assistance of the Office of Justice Programs may make grants to State and local prosecutors and law enforcement agencies in support of juvenile and young adult witness assistance programs.
(b) Use of fundsGrants made available under this section may be used—(1) to assess the needs of juvenile and young adult witnesses;
(2) to develop appropriate program goals and objectives; and
(3) to develop and administer a variety of witness assistance services, which includes—(A) counseling services to young witnesses dealing with trauma associated in witnessing a violent crime;
(B) pre- and post-trial assistance for the youth and their family;
(C) providing education services if the child is removed from or changes their school for safety concerns;
(D) protective services for young witnesses and their families when a serious threat of harm from the perpetrators or their associates is made; and
(E) community outreach and school-based initiatives that stimulate and maintain public awareness and support.
(c) DefinitionsIn this section:(1) The term “juvenile” means an individual who is age 17 or younger.
(2) The term “young adult” means an individual who is age 21 or younger but not a juvenile.
(3) The term “State” includes the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, American Samoa, Guam, and the Northern Mariana Islands.
(d) Authorization of appropriationsThere are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $3,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2006 through 2009.
Structure US Code
Title 34— CRIME CONTROL AND LAW ENFORCEMENT
Subtitle II— Protection of Children and Other Persons
CHAPTER 201— VICTIM RIGHTS, COMPENSATION, AND ASSISTANCE
SUBCHAPTER III— ADDITIONAL VICTIM COMPENSATION AND SERVICES
§ 20142. Closed circuit televised court proceedings for victims of crime
§ 20143. Grants for young witness assistance
§ 20144. Justice for United States victims of state sponsored terrorism