The bill amends existing laws regarding county and statewide grand juries, specifically addressing their composition and the process for issuing reports. It establishes that both county and statewide grand juries may issue reports consistent with the new provisions outlined in section 12-11.1-5.2. This section details the process for submitting reports to the presiding justice of the superior court, requiring the concurrence of at least twelve jurors for a report to be released to the public.

The bill outlines the responsibilities of the superior court in reviewing these reports, including notifying individuals or entities named in the reports and allowing them to respond before the reports are made public. The court must ensure that the reports meet specific criteria, such as being based on factual evidence, not containing personal material unrelated to lawful inquiries, not disclosing the identity of confidential informants, and not prejudicing the fair adjudication of any criminal matter. If the superior court determines that a report may prejudice fair adjudication of a pending criminal matter, it may order the report sealed and not subject to release, subpoena, or public inspection during the pendency of such criminal matter.

Additionally, the bill provides a mechanism for appeals regarding the acceptance or rejection of these reports by the superior court. It stipulates that no reports shall be issued pursuant to this section after July 1, 2030. This act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
949: 12-11-1, 12-11.1-1