We are getting a few questions about the upcoming election and thought compiling the answers might help clarify things. The transition from Victim Assistance Committee to the elected Victim Services Board is a part of TDCAA’s long range plan. The new VS Board will be structured similarly to the current Investigator Board and the Key Personnel Board.
Who is eligible for the Board? Anyone working in the office of a district attorney, criminal district attorney, or county attorney who is designated to provide crime victim services, has paid their TDCAA membership dues, is present at the TDCAA Annual Update on September 23 in South Padre Island, and has permission from their elected prosecutor. Elected prosecutors can email or call with their authorization to TDCAA Director of Victim Services Suzanne McDaniel at mcdaniel@tdcaa.com before September 6.
What will the election process be like? It will be fast! The election is scheduled for Thursday morning, September 23 between 8am and 8:30am. We will divide into regional caucuses and candidates may make a brief statement if they wish. That’s why we are asking you to let us know if you are running, have permission, and have paid membership dues by September 6. It will also help facilitate the process to get in touch with others in your region before the election.
Who can vote? One vote from each prosecutor office, regardless of the number of victim services personnel employed at that office.
What are the responsibilities of the Board? The new Victim Services Board will assist in preparing and developing operational procedures, standards, training and educational programs and serve as a point of contact for their region. Board members will be required to attend either the annual TDCAA update or Key Personnel & Victim Services training along with a board meeting in Austin to plan both. They will also be called upon to facilitate trainings and mentor in their region.
Still have questions? Please call Suzanne McDaniel at 512-474-2436.
