The bill amends the Victims of Crime Act to expand the definition of "victim" to include individuals directly and proximately harmed by any crime resulting in bodily harm or property damage, while eliminating the previous definition and references to "criminal offense." It introduces a new definition for "offender" and redefines "formally charged" to include the filing of a criminal complaint. The legislation enhances victims' rights by ensuring they receive timely notifications regarding an offender's release both before and after conviction, and mandates that law enforcement agencies treat victims with fairness and respect while taking reasonable steps to protect them.

Additionally, the bill requires the establishment of electronic notification systems by relevant state agencies to keep victims informed about their cases and outlines the responsibilities of law enforcement in providing information about investigations and available services. It mandates that district attorneys inform victims about their rights and the prosecution process. The bill also establishes a "victims of crime assistance fund" to provide financial assistance for crime scene cleanup and biological hazard services, funded through appropriations, gifts, and grants. It includes appropriations of $2 million for the electronic notification systems and the assistance fund, while repealing a previous section of the law that is deemed unnecessary.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 31-26-2, 31-26-3, 31-26-4, 31-26-5, 31-26-6, 31-26-7, 31-26-8, 31-26-9, 31-26-10, 31-26-11, 31-26-12, 31-26-14, 31-26-15, 31-26-10.1