Article 56.541(e) of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure authorizes the OAG to use money appropriated to the Texas Compensation to Victims of Crime Fund for grants or contracts supporting victim-related services or assistance. Pursuant to this authorization, the OAG created two types of grant programs, OVAG and VCLG. The source of grant funds for both programs is a biennial appropriation by the Texas Legislature from specified court costs and fees. The funds are constitutionally dedicated. Allocation of funds in the OVAG program is competitive.

Source Note:The provisions of this §60.3 adopted to be effective July 15, 2003, 28 TexReg 5523; amended to be effective July 31, 2005, 30 TexReg 4209.