Bill No. 1860 aims to enhance the confidentiality rights of victims and their families regarding crime scene and autopsy photographs during clemency hearings. The bill establishes that such photographs submitted to the Pardon and Parole Board will not be accessible to the public and mandates that they be included in a separate clemency hearing packet. Additionally, the bill amends the Open Records Act to classify crime scene and autopsy photographs of victims as confidential records, thereby prohibiting their public disclosure.

The legislation also outlines procedural requirements for clemency hearings, including the submission of two distinct packets: one for public access and another for the Board, which will contain sensitive materials. The Board is granted the authority to seal any records that could compromise the confidentiality or privacy of victims. The bill is set to take effect on November 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 51-24A.5
Floor (House): 51-24A.5
Floor (Senate): 51-24A.5
Engrossed: 51-24A.5