Statement From Congressman Dan Goldman on Trump Administration’s Termination of Grants to Vera Institute of Justice

“The Trump Administration’s decision to terminate five federal grants to the Vera Institute for Justice, including ones already designated for mental health crisis response, violence reduction, and resources for survivors of domestic violence, constitutes a direct assault on our most vulnerable communities and every New Yorker’s public safety.  

  

“The Vera Institute engages in critical work in New York City and cities nationwide to reduce crime and recidivism that make our communities safer. Their efforts safeguard immigrant and low-income Americans, support survivors of domestic violence and victims of crimes, bolster public safety through mental health programs, facilitate important law enforcement trainings, and increase access to affordable housing for formerly incarcerated people.  

  

“By cutting funding for essential public safety programs that serve diverse communities across New York City, the Trump administration is undermining the safety and security of our city in order to pay for massive tax breaks for billionaires. 

  

“Donald Trump and Elon Musk are unlawfully cutting critical government programs that New Yorkers and Americans depend upon based on random keyword searches so that they can personally benefit from our federal government. I urge the Trump administration to immediately reinstate these funds so that the Vera Institute can pursue its mission of making our country safer.”