S.B. No. 1704 aims to enhance the rights of crime victims, witnesses, and their close relatives within the Texas criminal justice system. The bill amends Article 56A.051 of the Code of Criminal Procedure to include new rights for victims, such as the right to be informed of modifications to a defendant's sentence within three days and the right to receive notifications regarding parole proceedings unless waived. Additionally, it introduces a new provision allowing individuals to waive their right to receive certain information and outlines the procedures for doing so. The bill also emphasizes the importance of victim impact statements, ensuring they are considered during sentencing and parole decisions.

Further amendments include clarifications on the victim impact statement's content, which must now inform victims of their rights and the information they can expect to receive unless waived. The bill also mandates that victims, guardians, or relatives must notify the relevant authorities of any changes in their contact information to ensure they continue to receive necessary notifications. Overall, S.B. No. 1704 seeks to strengthen the support and protection offered to victims and their families throughout the criminal justice process.