This bill amends Section 2 of P.L.2019, c.103 (C.52:4B-60.2) to enhance the rights of victims of sexual violence within the New Jersey criminal justice system. It recognizes the challenges faced by these victims, including being blamed for the crime or not being taken seriously, and establishes a public policy that ensures they are treated with dignity and compassion. The bill outlines specific rights for victims, such as the right to have allegations taken seriously, access to medical and counseling services, confidentiality in testing for communicable diseases, and the right to be informed about the status of forensic evidence.

Additionally, the bill provides that victims have the right to be informed about DNA evidence related to their case, including whether a DNA profile was obtained and if it matches any profiles in a data bank. It mandates that law enforcement agencies keep victims updated on the status of evidence processing upon request and allows victims to designate someone else to receive this information. The law enforcement agency is required to provide timely updates and cannot be held liable for failing to inform the victim if they have not made a specific request for information. The act will take effect four months after its enactment.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 52:4B-60.2
Advance Law: 52:4B-60.2
Pamphlet Law: 52:4B-60.2