The proposed bill would amend existing statutes to broaden the scope of prohibited communications from inmates to victims. Currently, the law only restricts inmates from sending mail to victims who have requested not to receive such correspondence. The bill would expand this prohibition to include any form of communication—written, verbal, or nonverbal—if the victim or their family members have made a request to not receive any communication from the inmate. This change aims to enhance the protection of victims' rights by ensuring that they are not subjected to any form of contact from offenders.

Additionally, the bill introduces a definition of "communication" that encompasses all forms of interaction, including mail, electronic communications, and telephone calls. It also makes technical adjustments to the language of the statutes to ensure clarity and consistency. The amendments would apply to both juvenile and adult offenders, reinforcing the rights of victims across different contexts within the criminal justice system. Overall, the bill seeks to strengthen the legal framework surrounding victims' rights and the communication restrictions placed on offenders.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 8-392.01, 13-4411.01, 31-235, 8-392, 13-4411
House Engrossed Version: 8-392.01, 13-4411.01, 31-235, 8-392, 13-4411
Chaptered Version: 8-392.01, 13-4411.01, 31-235, 8-392, 13-4411