Public Safety - Gun Violence Victim Relocation Program - Establishment

HB 180 establishes Maryland's Gun Violence Victim Relocation Program within the Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention and Policy’s Victim Services Unit. It provides eligible victims of gun violence (who experienced violence near their home or live near a suspect and demonstrate safety risks) with relocation assistance, covering moving costs, security deposits, rent, counseling, legal aid, and job training. The program is funded through a permanent Gun Violence Victim Relocation Program Fund, with interest earnings credited back to the fund. It requires collaboration with housing and social services agencies to ensure safe relocations and protects program participants from housing discrimination.