The Forced or Involuntary Sterilization Compensation Program (FISCP) stopped accepting new applications for compensation on December 31, 2023.
CalVCB is currently conducting additional reviews of previously denied claims or appeals upon requests by claimants with a showing of good cause.
Frequently asked questions
What if my initial application or appeal was denied?
A claimant may request an additional review of a previously denied claim or appeal with a showing of good cause. A claimant must request the additional review no later than January 1, 2025, as outlined in Health and Safety Code 24213.
What constitutes good cause?
Good cause includes, but is not limited to, a court ruling on an issue forming the basis of the initial denial. CalVCB will review each request on a case-by-case basis.
How do I request an additional review of my application?
You can send your request for additional review, which should include your name and application number, to CalVCB as follows:
- By email: FISCP@victims.ca.gov
- By fax: 916-491-6429
- By mail:
CalVCB
c/o FISCP
PO Box 591
Sacramento, CA 95812-0591
Please include your application number on the letter.
How much money will survivors receive if their application is approved following a good cause review?
Qualified recipients will receive a total of $35,000. This compensation will not be considered taxable income for state tax purposes. To learn more about how the payments are considered in other situations, such as when qualifying for public benefits or when collections have been ordered, review Health and Safety Code 24217.
When will approved survivors receive compensation after additional review?
If CalVCB approves an application after additional review, CalVCB will issue payment within 60 days of the board’s determination, and no later than January 1, 2026.
Who qualified for the program?
For survivors of sterilization in state-run facilities:
- Sterilization happened between 1909 and 1979
- Sterilization occurred at a state hospital, home, or institution
- The facility was run by:
- The California Department of State Hospitals, or
- The California Department of Developmental Services
- See a list of facilities covered by the program at Health and Safety Code 24210.
- The victim was alive as of July 1, 2021
For survivors of sterilization in prison:
- Sterilization happened after 1979
- Sterilization occurred at a state prison or correctional facility
- The facility was run by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation
- Sterilization was not required for emergency life-saving medical reasons
- Sterilization was not due to a chemical sterilization program for convicted sex offenders
- Sterilization was for birth control purposes
- Sterilized under one of the following conditions:
- Without consent,
- With consent given less than 30 days before sterilization,
- With consent given without counseling or consultation, or
- With no record or documentation of giving consent
Were applications confidential?
Yes. CalVCB will not disclose to the public any record about a claimant’s application. Information may be shared with other entities, but only to verify eligibility. See CalVCB’s privacy policy.
How can I learn more?
Send an email to FISCP@victims.ca.gov.