New Jersey's victim compensation program compared with other States shows that New Jersey ranks near the top, with close to 2,000 claims received and almost $3 million in compensation awarded in 1983. Legislation which established the VCCB is reviewed, as are its duties, responsibilities, and type of fines that provide the program's revenue. The report describes recent legislation which enhanced and expanded the VCCB's programs, eligibility criteria, compensation benefits, and claims processing procedures. Public awareness programs undertaken by the VCCB and their positive impact on claims are discussed. Other programs described are a victim counseling service, a 24-hour, toll-free hotline, outreach and victim assistance to the Hispanic community, and the Governor's Management Improvement Program. A statistical overview covers claims and disbursements, types of crimes for which claims were filed, reasons for claims denied, claims by county, claims by senior citizens, and a 6-year overview of claims and disbursements. The report provides a synopsis of court decisions involving the VCCB and summaries of illustrative claims. Future program objectives and legislative initiatives are detailed.