This bill aims to enhance protections and notification requirements for victims in the criminal justice process in Minnesota. It mandates that judges inquire whether victims have been notified of plea and sentencing hearings, ensuring that victims are informed and can express their objections. Additionally, the bill protects the identity of minor victims in cases involving sexual performance and expands the notification of victims regarding the defendant's eligibility for automatic expungement. It also extends protections against employer retaliation to victims of stalking, thereby strengthening the support system for victims of various crimes.

Key amendments include the requirement for prosecutors to include the number of victims in petitions for sentence adjustments, rather than their names, and to notify victims of their rights to be present at plea hearings and to submit impact statements at sentencing. The bill also clarifies that confidential data regarding minor victims will not be publicly accessible, except by court order. Furthermore, it emphasizes the need for prosecutors to inform victims about the final disposition of their cases and the eligibility for automatic expungement, thereby ensuring that victims are kept informed throughout the legal process.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 609.133, 609.3471, 611A.03, 611A.036, 611A.038, 611A.039