The Sex Offense Victims Rights Expansion Act seeks to enhance the rights and protections of victims of sex offenses by ensuring they are informed and involved in the judicial process. The bill requires that victims be notified when a sex offender applies to terminate their registration obligation, including details about any related hearings, and grants them the right to appear and express their views. If the court approves the termination, victims must also be informed of this decision. Additionally, the bill mandates that courts issue restraining orders against defendants charged with sex offenses, prohibiting contact with the victim if the victim consents, and ensures that these orders are continued or newly imposed at the time of sentencing.

The legislation modifies existing laws by replacing discretionary language with mandatory provisions, thereby giving victims a more active role in the legal proceedings and enhancing their safety. Specifically, it requires that courts either continue existing contact restrictions or impose new ones at sentencing, with such orders remaining in effect until modified or terminated with the victim's consent. The bill also applies these provisions to all existing orders as of its effective date, ensuring consistent protection for victims throughout the legal process.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2C:7-2, 2C:14-12, 2C:44-8