Relates to certain contact information provided to crime victims

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Steve Stern

Bill A 693 ensures crime victims receive accurate contact info for support services, improving access to assistance and standardizing resources across jurisdictions.

SIGNED CHAP.23

Bill Overview

Bill Number: A 693
Title: Relates to certain contact information provided to crime victims
Status: Signed into law (Chapter 23)
Introduced: January 8, 2025

The purpose of Bill A 693 is to enhance the support and resources available to crime victims by ensuring they receive accurate and timely contact information for relevant services and agencies. This legislation aims to improve the overall experience of victims navigating the aftermath of a crime.

Key Provisions

Contact Information Requirements: The bill mandates that law enforcement agencies and other relevant entities provide crime victims with specific contact information. This includes details for local victim assistance programs, legal aid services, and mental health resources.

Standardization of Information: The bill seeks to standardize the information provided to victims across different jurisdictions, ensuring consistency and reliability in the resources available to them.

Training for Law Enforcement: It includes provisions for training law enforcement personnel on how to effectively communicate this information to victims, emphasizing sensitivity and clarity.

Periodic Review: The legislation requires periodic reviews of the contact information provided to ensure it remains current and accurate.

Impact

Who is Affected: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are crime victims who will have better access to necessary support services. Additionally, law enforcement agencies will be required to adapt their practices to comply with the new standards.

Support Services: Victim assistance programs, legal aid organizations, and mental health services will also be impacted as they may see an increase in referrals and inquiries from victims seeking help.

Legislative Timeline

January 8, 2025: Bill A 693 was introduced and referred to the Governmental Operations Committee.

January 13, 2025: The bill was reported and ordered to third reading.

January 14, 2025: Passed in the Assembly and delivered to the Senate.

January 28, 2025: The bill passed in the Senate, was substituted for companion bill S 770, and returned to the Assembly.

February 12, 2025: Delivered to the Governor.

February 14, 2025: Signed into law as Chapter 23.

Conclusion

Bill A 693 represents a significant step forward in supporting crime victims by ensuring they have access to vital resources and information. By standardizing the contact information provided and training law enforcement personnel, the bill aims to create a more supportive environment for victims during a challenging time.

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