School of Law
School of Law
In a recent report conducting national research evaluating the victim compensation laws in all 50 states and territories, Maryland is ranked #1 in the US, a recognition reflecting years of coalition-powered work to transform a system known for its barriers and inequities. This follows passage of Maryland’s historic Victim Compensation Reform Act of 2024, which went into effect in July 2025, and which CCJR proudly championed alongside numerous state and national partners. At a national convening hosted by the report’s co-authors the Center for American Progress and Common Justice, Executive Director Heather Warnken had the opportunity to reflect on this reform journey, the community leadership that made it possible, and the implementation and culture change work that remains.