Resources

The Crime Victims Fund (the Fund) was established by the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) of 1984. The Fund is financed by fines and penalties paid by persons convicted in federal cases, not from tax dollars.

As of September 2023, the Fund balance is over $1 billion and includes deposits (also known as receipts) from federal criminal fines, forfeited bail bonds, penalties, and special assessments collected by U.S. Attorneys' Offices, federal courts, and the Federal Bureau of Prisons.

On July 22, 2021, President Biden signed the VOCA Fix to Sustain the Crime Victims Fund Act of 2021 in a historic effort to stabilize the Fund. The VOCA Fix requires monetary penalties from federal deferred prosecution and non-prosecution agreements to go into the Crime Victims Fund.

Federal revenues deposited into the Fund also come from gifts, donations, and bequests by private parties, as provided by an amendment to VOCA through the USA PATRIOT Act in 2001 that went into effect in 2002. Since 2002, hundreds of thousands of dollars have been deposited into the Fund through this provision.

When the Fund was authorized in 1984, a cap was placed on how much could be deposited into it for the first 8 years. During this time, the annual cap varied from $100 million to $150 million. The lifting of the cap in 1993 allowed for the deposit of all criminal fines, special assessments, and forfeited bail bonds to support crime victim program activities.

For the first 15 years of the Fund's existence, the total deposits for each fiscal year were distributed the following year to support services to crime victims. 

Starting in Fiscal Year (FY) 2000, in response to large fluctuations in deposits, Congress placed a cap on funds available for distribution (also known as obligations). These annual caps were intended to maintain the Fund as a stable source of support for future victim services. From FY 2000 to 2018, the amount of the annual cap varied from $500 million to more than $4 billion.

The cap was set at $2.015 billion in FY 2021 and $2.6 billion and $1.9 billion in FY 2022 and FY 2023, respectively. 

The cap has a direct impact on the allocation process. For example, trend data indicates state victim assistance formula grant allocations fluctuate similarly to the obligation cap. Despite fluctuating allocations, the number of subgrants awarded and subgrantee organizations funded remained relatively constant as did the number of victims served. In FY 2022, subgrantees served 9.8 million victims, including new and returning individuals.

Federal, state, and Tribal victim assistance programs receive formula grants, discretionary grants, and set-asides according to a carefully established annual allocation process outlined below.

Biohazard Cleanup Services: Engage with professional biohazard cleanup services specializing in after-death cleanup. Companies like BIO Scene Care offer certified technicians, state-of-the-art equipment, and expertise in handling biohazardous situations with compassion.

Local Health Department and Authorities: Contact your local health department or authorities for guidance on regulations related to after-death cleanup. They can provide information on proper procedures, permits, and any legal requirements involved in biohazardous waste disposal.

Grief Counselors and Support Groups: Seek the support of grief counselors or local support groups to cope with the emotional aftermath of a loss. Dealing with the cleanup of a deceased loved one's space can be emotionally challenging, and professional counseling can provide valuable support.

Legal Advisors: Consult legal advisors, especially if the death occurred in a rental property or public space. Understanding your rights and responsibilities can help navigate legal aspects associated with after-death cleanup and potential liabilities.

Insurance Providers: Check with your insurance provider to understand coverage for after-death cleanup services. Some policies may include coverage for cleanup costs, depending on the circumstances. Clarify coverage details and document the incident for insurance purposes.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in the United States sets forth regulations to ensure the safety of workers who handle biohazardous waste. OSHA's regulations primarily fall under the Bloodborne Pathogens Standard (29 CFR 1910.1030) and the Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200).

Here's an overview:

Bloodborne Pathogens Standard:

Scope: Covers workers who may be exposed to blood or other potentially infectious materials (OPIM).

Requirements: Mandates the use of Universal Precautions, safe work practices, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) to minimize the risk of bloodborne pathogen transmission.

Training: Employers must provide training on bloodborne pathogens, safe work practices, and the proper use of PPE.

Exposure Control Plan: Employers must develop and implement an Exposure Control Plan detailing steps taken to minimize exposure to bloodborne pathogens.

Hazard Communication Standard:

Scope: Addresses the communication of hazards associated with chemicals, including those used in the handling and cleanup of biohazardous waste.

Requirements: Employers must provide information and training to workers regarding hazardous chemicals they may encounter. This includes proper labeling, safety data sheets (SDS), and employee training programs.

Chemical Inventory: Employers are required to maintain an inventory of chemicals used in the workplace and provide access to SDS for all hazardous substances.

General Requirements:

Engineering Controls: Employers must implement engineering controls to minimize exposure, including the use of sharps containers, biohazard bags, and proper disposal procedures.

Recordkeeping: OSHA requires the maintenance of records related to training, exposure incidents, and medical evaluations.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

Employers must provide appropriate PPE, such as gloves, gowns, face shields, and eye protection, and ensure its proper use and disposal.

Sharps Safety:

Needlestick Prevention: Employers must implement engineering controls and safe work practices to prevent needlestick injuries. The use of safety-engineered sharps devices is encouraged to minimize the risk of accidental punctures.

Waste Disposal:

Proper Segregation: Biohazardous waste must be properly segregated from regular waste. OSHA mandates clear labeling of containers holding biohazardous materials to prevent accidental exposure.

Transportation Requirements: There are specific regulations governing the transportation of biohazardous waste. Employers must comply with the Department of Transportation (DOT) requirements for packaging, labeling, and transportation of hazardous materials.

Medical Surveillance:

Post-Exposure Evaluation and Follow-Up: Employees who experience an exposure incident must receive a post-exposure evaluation, including medical follow-up. This process aims to assess the risk of infection and provides appropriate medical care if necessary.

Emergency Procedures:

Emergency Response Plan: Employers must develop and implement an emergency response plan for accidental exposures. This includes procedures for reporting incidents, seeking medical attention, and notifying appropriate personnel.

Training and Education:

Regular Training Updates: OSHA requires employers to provide ongoing training and updates to employees handling biohazardous waste. This includes staying informed about new hazards, equipment, and safety protocols.

Inspections and Enforcement:

OSHA Inspections: OSHA conducts inspections to ensure compliance with regulations. Employers are subject to citations and penalties for violations. Regular self-audits and compliance checks are encouraged to maintain a safe work environment.

Consultation Services:

OSHA Consultation Programs: OSHA offers consultation services to help employers understand and comply with regulations. Small and medium-sized businesses can benefit from these services, which provide guidance on developing effective safety and health programs.

Ensuring compliance with OSHA's regulations is crucial for protecting the health and safety of workers involved in the handling and cleanup of biohazardous waste. Employers should stay informed about updates to regulations and continuously assess and improve their safety programs.

Ensuring compliance with OSHA's regulations is crucial for protecting the health and safety of workers involved in the handling and cleanup of biohazardous waste. Employers should stay informed about updates to regulations and continuously assess and improve their safety programs.

Coping with the aftermath of a death is a challenging experience that no one should have to face alone. Fortunately, professional services exist to handle the cleanup of biohazards in such situations. Whether the passing occurred without any traumatic events or went unnoticed for a few days, the natural decomposition process can leave behind blood, urine, feces, and unpleasant odors.

Understanding the Financial Aspect of Cleaning Up After a Death

Specialized companies are available to assist in the cleanup after a death or accident, dispelling the misconception that it is excessively costly. In many cases, homeowner's insurance policies cover the expenses associated with cleaning a death scene.

The costs involved in cleaning up after a death typically include biohazard disposal, disinfectants, Tyvek suits, odor remediation equipment, and, at times, demolition equipment for the removal of floors and drywall. It's crucial to recognize that this is not a standard cleaning service – the presence of biological hazards and the need for expensive remediation equipment differentiate it from routine cleaning tasks.

Navigating the Cleanup Process Following a Tragic Event

The average cost for cleaning up a death scene falls between $2500 and $5000. Homeowners with insurance coverage are advised to file a claim to offset these expenses. While estimates are generally provided before commencement, they may not always be entirely accurate.

Seeking Professional Assistance: The Advantages of Hiring a Death Scene Cleanup Company

Identifying whether blood or biohazard fluids have penetrated grout lines, base plates, or behind baseboards is impossible without initial demolition. Therefore, when engaging a cleanup company, it's crucial to request proof of insurance and workers' compensation. All biohazard materials must be properly contained for transport and disposal by an incineration or autoclave company. Biohazard disposal tends to be the most expensive component of death cleanup, making it essential to choose a reliable service. For a complimentary estimate, reach out to BIO Scene Care nationwide at 888-904-4001. Our dedicated staff is available around the clock to assist you.

Experiencing the aftermath of a suicide can be emotionally challenging, particularly for the family members of the deceased.

In the event of a suicide occurring on your property or elsewhere, it becomes necessary to handle the cleanup of biohazards or remains, as law enforcement does not undertake this task. Initiate the process by contacting law enforcement for a thorough investigation. Subsequently, it is advisable to engage the services of biohazard experts for the extensive cleanup. This involves the use of protective gear, appropriate chemicals, and equipment for thorough cleaning, as well as experts to handle the disposal of decomposition, which cannot be simply discarded in regular trash bins.

Following the cleanup, decontamination of all items used is crucial. Opting for professional assistance, such as from BIO Scene Care, is recommended as they manage the entire process, allowing you to grieve without additional stress.

For those considering a DIY cleanup, refer to https://www.gov.mb.ca/health/publichealth/factsheets/pep_book.pdf for additional safety guidelines.

Understanding Biohazard or Suicide Cleanup

Biohazard or suicide cleanup involves safely addressing biohazardous waste, requiring precision, safety measures, and thorough decontamination. Suicide cleanup specifically focuses on addressing the aftermath of a suicide. Biohazardous waste can fall into categories such as infectious, radioactive, flammable, toxic, corrosive, and reactive.

Examples of biohazard waste include infectious materials (blood, tissues, needles), radioactive waste (containing Uranium and Thorium), flammable substances (alcohol, ether, acetone, gasoline), toxic elements (lead in water, chemicals from landfills, car exhaust), corrosive agents (e.g., Glycolic Acid, Sulfuric Acid, Hydrogen Peroxide), and reactive materials (explosives, peroxides).

Steps to Take in the Event of Suicide or Unattended Death

1. Call the police.

2. Decide whether to hire experts for cleanup.

3. If handling cleanup yourself, ensure protective gear and appropriate cleaning agents are used. Dispose of biohazard materials correctly and decontaminate all used supplies.

4. Seek immediate medical attention if you come into contact with biohazardous material.

5. Seek help if experiencing depression or grief due to suicide, with resources available at https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/help-yourself/loss-survivors.

Reporting a Suicide or Unattended Death

Contact authorities to ensure a thorough investigation, ruling out foul play. Notify the victim's family for potential information that may assist authorities.

Considering Professional Cleanup Services

Trained experts can handle the removal of biohazardous waste, including carpet removal, cleaning, tile removal, disposal, odor elimination, and insurance claims. Hiring professionals, like those at BIO Scene Care, ensures safe handling of biohazard material, protecting your health.

Homeowner's Insurance Coverage

Most homeowners' insurance policies cover the costs of cleaning and decontaminating biohazards resulting from a suicide on the property. Companies like BIO Scene Care can manage insurance claims, allowing for a more peaceful grieving process.

Cost of Biohazard Cleanup

Biohazard cleanup costs vary based on the severity, with additional expenses for tasks such as tile or carpet removal. Most homeowners' insurance policies cover suicide cleanup, emphasizing the importance of consulting professionals like BIO Scene Care.

Guidelines for Suicide Cleaning

Refer to https://www.gov.mb.ca/health/publichealth/factsheets/pep_book.pdf for comprehensive information on handling biohazardous materials during suicide cleanup. It is essential to follow safety guidelines when dealing with biohazardous waste, emphasizing the need for professional assistance from experienced companies like BIO Scene Care.

Helping someone who struggles with hoarding can be complex and requires a mix of practical, emotional, and sometimes professional intervention. Here are some useful resources and strategies to provide effective support:

1. Educational Resources

- The American Psychiatric Association (APA) and International OCD Foundation (IOCDF) provide detailed information on hoarding disorder, its symptoms, and treatment options.

- Books on Hoarding: Titles like *"Buried in Treasures"* by David Tolin and "Digging Out" by Michael A. Tompkins offer insights and strategies for families and individuals dealing with hoarding.

2. Support Groups

- Hoarding Task Forces: Many cities have task forces focused on hoarding disorder, offering community support, legal resources, and clean-up services. You can search for task forces or hoarding coalitions in your area.

- Peer Support Groups: Organizations like Clutterers Anonymous provide 12-step support programs, which are helpful for ongoing peer support.

3. Therapists and Counselors Specializing in Hoarding

- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), especially a form of CBT focused on hoarding, is often effective. The IOCDF has a directory of therapists skilled in hoarding treatment.

- Motivational Interviewing (MI) can be helpful in addressing ambivalence, as people who hoard may have mixed feelings about changing their habits.

4. Professional Cleanup Services

- Companies like BIO Scene Care specialize in hoarding cleanup, offering organized and compassionate services. Professional services are often essential because of health hazards or structural risks.

- Some clean-up services also have partnerships with mental health professionals to provide holistic support throughout the process.

5. Local Community Resources

- Adult Protective Services (APS): If a person’s hoarding is severe enough to impact their safety, APS may provide additional support.

- Public Health Departments: Many public health departments offer programs to assist people with extreme clutter, and they may also have referral resources.

6. Legal and Financial Resources

- Legal Aid and Tenant Advocacy: In cases where hoarding impacts housing or is legally complicated, some organizations offer legal support to prevent evictions.

- Funding Assistance: Some government and nonprofit programs provide financial assistance for cleanup services, especially for individuals with low income or disabilities.

Combining these resources can make a big difference for both the individual struggling with hoarding and the family and friends involved in the recovery process.