North Dakota domestic and sexual violence cases hit record high as advocacy centers brace for federal cuts

North Dakota domestic violence and sexual assault advocacy centers served a record number of people in 2024, with over 6,300 domestic violence victims and nearly 1,400 sexual assault victims. This represents increases of 3.3% and 5.8% respectively over 2023. The state Legislature increased funding by $4.1 million to $11.7 million for the 2025-27 biennium, which will help raise wages for case advocates who currently average $21 per hour. However, coalition executive director Seth O’Neill expressed concern about potential federal budget cuts, as advocacy centers rely on federal funds for about 30% of their budgets. The centers also secured 481 emergency protection orders for domestic violence victims, an increase of 50 from the previous year.