Legislative Updates

NCVLI keeps you informed by tracking events related to victims’ rights in the courts and legislature.  Below, find updates on the latest happenings affecting victims’ rights.  NCVLI works with partners on the ground around the country to stay up-to-date on victims’ rights related legislation.  If you are aware of legislation pertinent to the victims’ rights field, please contact NCVLI at ncvli@lclark.edu.

Wisconsin (4/27/2012)

On April 27, Wisconsin’s Crime Victim Rights Preservation Act went into effect after Governor Scott Walker signed it into law earlier this month. This important legislation ensures that victims of crime now have recourse when their constitutional rights to “fairness, dignity and respect for their privacy” are violated. The law also permits circuit court judges to issue orders to enforce crime victim rights. 

Illinois (4/25/2012)

The Illinois Senate approved a proposed victims’ rights amendment to the state constitution. Modeled after the 2004 Federal CVRA and California’s “Marsy’s Law,” the proposed amendment would provide victims a remedy for rights violations, and grant additional rights, including the right to be free from harassment and abuse, and the right to have the victim’s safety considered when setting bail and conditions of release.  The bill now heads back to the House for its final OK given wording changes made in the Senate version. The measure previously was approved in the House 116-2. If approved by both chambers, the proposed amendment will be put to voters on the November 6th general election ballot.