The bill updates the Victim Rights Act (act). The purpose of the
act is to ensure all victims of crimes are protected by law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and judges.
The bill updates include: •
Allowing a victim or the victim's designees to appear in court proceedings in person, by phone, or virtually via video or audio technology, or similar technology;
•
Requiring defendants to attend sentencing hearings to hear
the victim's impact statement, unless the court excludes the defendant;
•
Clarifying that a victim or the victim's designees have a right to consult with the prosecution after any crime against the victim has been charged, and the prosecutor shall explain the sentencing terms;
•
Requiring the court to provide the victim or the victim's designees with translation or interpretation services as needed during all critical stages of the hearing;
•
Clarifying that a victim or the victim's designees have a right to attend all parole board hearings;
•
Requiring a court to order a bond hearing in any case that falls under the act; and
•
Clarifying that more than one person can represent the interests of a victim who is deceased or incapacitated.
