The proposed bill would amend current statutes regarding the disclosure of victims' and witnesses' names in public records related to criminal cases. Under the new provisions, a victim's name may be redacted from records released pursuant to a public records request if the agency believes that releasing the name could lead to harassment, threats to safety, or witness tampering. This redaction is contingent upon the victim's request and does not apply to records shared between law enforcement and prosecution agencies, records concerning deceased victims, or records where the victim has consented to disclosure. Additionally, the bill clarifies that a witness's name can also be redacted under similar conditions if they request anonymity.

The bill also introduces a definition for "final disposition," which refers to the conclusion of a criminal prosecution, and makes technical changes to existing language. It specifies circumstances under which a public body may disclose a witness's name, including written consent from the witness, a court order, or if a notice of final disposition has been received. Overall, these updates aim to enhance the protection of victims and witnesses in the criminal justice process while maintaining necessary transparency in public records.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 8-413, 13-4434, 39-123.01, 8-384, 13-4403, 13-3623, 13-4401, 13-3601
House Engrossed Version: 8-413, 13-4434, 39-123.01, 8-384, 13-4403, 13-3623, 13-4401, 13-3601
Chaptered Version: 8-413, 13-4434, 39-123.01, 8-384, 13-4403, 13-3623, 13-4401, 13-3601