This bill proposes several updates to the current statutes regarding the handling of anonymous tips submitted to silent witness programs. Under the new provisions, disclosure of information that could identify an individual who submitted a tip anonymously is prohibited, with all tips lacking a full name deemed anonymous. Prosecutors are allowed to disclose identifying information only if required by constitutional, legal, or ethical duties, and they must make reasonable efforts to protect anonymity when disclosure is not mandated. Additionally, no records that could identify anonymous tipsters will be subject to compulsory production unless a motion is filed in the appropriate superior court that establishes good cause for disclosure. The burden of proof for good cause lies with the party filing the motion. Furthermore, the bill mandates that silent witness programs retain written tip materials until at least the first anniversary of either the expiration of all appeals in a criminal proceeding or the exhaustion of a plaintiff's appeal rights in a civil proceeding. The updates aim to enhance the confidentiality of anonymous tips while providing a structured process for potential disclosures under specific circumstances.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 12-2312
House Engrossed Version: 12-2312
Senate Engrossed Version: 12-2312
Chaptered Version: 12-2312