A Resolution recognizing the week of April 19 through 25, 2026, as "National Crime Victims' Rights Week" in Pennsylvania.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Dave Argall and 15 co-sponsors

Designates April 19–25, 2026 as National Crime Victims’ Rights Week in PA to raise awareness and honor victims, with no new laws or funding.

Referred to Rules & Executive Nominations

Purpose

SR 263 is a concurrent or state Senate resolution recognizing a designated awareness week in Pennsylvania.

Specifically, it designates the week of April 19 through April 25, 2026, as “National Crime Victims’ Rights Week” in Pennsylvania.

The measure is ceremonial in nature, aimed at acknowledging and promoting awareness of crime victims’ rights and support services.

Key Provisions and Changes

Proclamation of Recognition: The resolution formally recognizes National Crime Victims’ Rights Week within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for the year 2026.

Purpose of Week: The designation is intended to raise public awareness about the rights and needs of crime victims, honor victims and survivors, and highlight available resources and advocacy efforts.

No Regulatory or Fiscal Impact Specified: The text, as described, does not introduce new laws, regulations, or funding programs. It serves to acknowledge the national observance at the state level.

Affected Parties

Crime victims and survivors: The designation may provide symbolic recognition and can bolster public awareness and access to resources.

Law enforcement, prosecutors, and victim services organizations: May use the proclamation to promote events, trainings, or outreach during the designated week.

General public and institutions: Encouraged to observe and participate in related activities and education.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

Referral: The bill was referred to the Rules & Executive Nominations committee on April 8, 2026.

Sponsor and Co-Sponsors: The resolution has a broad list of co-sponsors from both Republican and Democratic members, indicating cross-party support for recognizing the observance.

Legislative Nature: As a resolution, it does not create enforceable duties or appropriations. It is typically adopted to express the sense of the General Assembly and to encourage related observances and programs.

Additional Context

Observances like National Crime Victims’ Rights Week are informational and symbolic, often accompanied by events, remembrance activities, and educational campaigns organized by victim services providers, advocacy groups, and government agencies.

While no new funding is attached in the resolution itself, adopting the proclamation can support continued advocacy and partnership opportunities for victim-centered initiatives.

If you’d like, I can add context on typical activities that accompany National Crime Victims’ Rights Week or provide examples of how other states implement similar proclamations.

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