Raised Bill No. 5509 introduces amendments to existing statutes with a focus on public safety and victim compensation, set to take effect on October 1, 2024. The bill lowers the age from twenty-three to twenty-one for the offense of enticing a minor to commit a crime and restricts the use of the odor of cannabis as a basis for vehicle searches, except when a minor is suspected to be present. It also revises the procedures of the Psychiatric Security Review Board, emphasizing the protection of society and the safety of the acquittee, and changes the frequency of applications for temporary leave or conditional release from psychiatric custody from every six months to every twelve months. The standard of proof for hearings before the board is raised to clear and convincing evidence for acquittees seeking less restrictive orders.

Furthermore, the bill expands the definitions related to victim compensation, including financial loss or damages resulting from criminal actions, and outlines the conditions for compensation due to personal injury or death. It specifies that life and property insurance benefits are not to be considered in compensation determinations and allows for the waiver of health insurance information in sensitive cases. The bill also permits compensation for various parties affected by a victim's injury or death and clarifies the types of evidence admissible for determining violations. The bill's provisions extend to crimes occurring outside the U.S., international terrorism, and substantiated child abuse, allowing for compensation regardless of a conviction for the offense.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 54-33p, 54-201, 54-208, 54-209