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HB 1845

Creating an office of the crime victims ombuds.

2023-2024 Regular Session Introduced by Carolyn Eslick and 3 co-sponsors

HB 1845: Creating an Office of the Crime Victims Ombuds OverviewBill Number: HB 1845 Title: Creating an office of the crime victims ombuds. Status: By resolution, reintroduced an

By resolution, reintroduced and retained in present status.
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Bill Summary · HB 1845

HB 1845: Creating an Office of the Crime Victims Ombuds

Overview

Bill Number: HB 1845
Title: Creating an office of the crime victims ombuds.
Status: By resolution, reintroduced and retained in present status.
Introduced: January 14, 2025

Purpose and Intent

The primary goal of HB 1845 is to establish an independent Office of the Crime Victims Ombuds to advocate for and assist crime victims navigating the criminal justice system. The bill aims to improve support and services for victims, ensure their rights are protected, and provide a centralized point of contact for addressing concerns or complaints.

Key Provisions

  • Creates the Office of the Crime Victims Ombuds as an independent agency within the executive branch
  • Appoints a Crime Victims Ombuds to lead the office, with qualifications including experience in victim services and advocacy
  • Grants the Ombuds authority to investigate complaints, review agency actions, and make recommendations to improve victim services
  • Requires the Ombuds to establish a toll-free hotline and website for victims to access information and file complaints
  • Mandates the Ombuds to submit annual reports to the legislature on the office's activities and recommendations

Affected Parties and Impacts

The primary beneficiaries of this legislation would be crime victims, who would gain a dedicated resource to assist them, advocate on their behalf, and ensure their rights are upheld throughout the criminal justice process. Law enforcement, prosecutors, and other criminal justice agencies would also be affected, as the Ombuds would have oversight and the ability to make recommendations for improving victim services.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

HB 1845 has been reintroduced and retained in its current status, indicating the legislature is continuing to consider the bill. If passed, the legislation would likely take effect 90 days after the legislative session, with the Office of the Crime Victims Ombuds required to be established within one year. The Ombuds would then begin operations, accepting complaints and working to improve support and services for crime victims in the state.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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