This bill enacts new provisions in Louisiana law aimed at enhancing the rights and notifications for crime victims, witnesses, and their families. It introduces R.S. 15:715, which mandates that sheriffs or their designees must promptly notify law enforcement agencies and local media when an inmate escapes from a parish prison or jail. Additionally, they are required to inform known witnesses and the victim of the crime for which the inmate was imprisoned. If the inmate is recaptured, notification must be sent to the same parties within one working day.

Furthermore, the bill establishes R.S. 46:1847 and 1848, which create a comprehensive victims' services system to ensure that the rights of crime victims and witnesses are upheld throughout the criminal justice process. This system will be administered by the Department of Public Safety and Corrections and aims to provide timely and clear information regarding victims' rights, including emergency services, notifications of judicial proceedings, and the right to restitution. The legislation emphasizes the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to implement this system effectively by July 1, 2026.