The bill amends R.S. 46:1844(K)(1)(b)(ii) to enhance the rights of crime victims regarding their impact statements during court proceedings. It specifically requires that a victim impact statement can be directed toward the defendant, ensuring that the defendant is present during the statement. The court is granted the authority to limit the number of statements from family members if they exceed three, and it can impose reasonable restrictions to maintain courtroom decorum.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that the court cannot prohibit the victim impact statement from being directed at the defendant unless it disrupts the order and decorum of the courtroom. This change aims to empower victims and their families by allowing them to address the defendant directly, thereby acknowledging their experiences and the impact of the crime. The provision for in-camera hearings upon the state's motion remains intact, allowing for sensitive statements to be made privately if necessary.

Statutes affected:
SB402 Original: 46:1844(K)(1)
SB402 Engrossed: 46:1844(K)(1)
SB402 Enrolled: 46:1844(K)(1)
SB402 Act 344: 46:1844(K)(1)