Substitute House Bill No. 5564 aims to enhance the rights and support for crime victims in Connecticut by allowing them to make statements during critical judicial proceedings, such as the dismissal of charges or plea agreements. The bill mandates that victims can present their opinions in person or through written statements if they cannot attend. It specifies the types of offenses for which victims can make statements, including various felonies and certain misdemeanors related to sexual offenses and family violence. Additionally, the bill modifies the notification process, removing the requirement for victims to submit a stamped, self-addressed postcard and instead requiring them to provide up-to-date contact information to receive timely notifications about sentencing hearings and plea agreements.

The bill also establishes the Office of Victim Services (OVS) with expanded responsibilities, including the creation of an informational document detailing victims' rights and available assistance, which must be accessible in multiple languages and formats. Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of training for judicial and law enforcement personnel on victims' rights and maintains a sexual assault forensic examiners program. The effective date for these changes is set for October 1, 2026, with anticipated costs of up to $332,000 for the Judicial Department and $135,500 for fringe benefits in the first fiscal year following implementation. Key insertions include the establishment of a victim's assistance center and a state advisory council to improve victim services, while the deletion involves the previous postcard notification requirement.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 54-91c
JUD Joint Favorable Substitute: 54-91c
File No. 633: 54-91c