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S 2491

SAFE Sunscreen Standards Act

119th Congress Introduced by Maggie Hassan and 1 co-sponsor

Bill S 2491 prohibits discriminatory peremptory challenges in jury selection, ensuring fairer processes for prospective jurors based on race, gender, and other factors.

Introduced in Senate
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · S 2491

Summary of Bill S 2491

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: S 2491
  • Title: Relates to prohibiting certain discriminatory peremptory challenges to prospective jurors
  • Status: Referred to Codes
  • Introduced: January 21, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 2491 aims to address and prohibit discriminatory practices in the use of peremptory challenges during jury selection. Peremptory challenges allow attorneys to reject potential jurors without providing a reason, which can lead to discrimination based on race, gender, or other protected characteristics. This legislation seeks to ensure a fairer and more equitable jury selection process.

Key Provisions

  • Prohibition of Discriminatory Challenges: The bill specifically prohibits the use of peremptory challenges that are based on discriminatory factors, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender, and sexual orientation.
  • Judicial Oversight: Courts will be empowered to review and potentially overturn peremptory challenges that are deemed discriminatory. This provision aims to enhance accountability in the jury selection process.
  • Reporting Requirements: The bill may include provisions for tracking and reporting the use of peremptory challenges to ensure compliance and transparency.

Affected Parties

  • Prospective Jurors: Individuals summoned for jury duty will benefit from a more equitable selection process, reducing the likelihood of being excluded based on discriminatory reasons.
  • Legal Professionals: Attorneys and judges will need to adjust their practices regarding jury selection, ensuring that their actions comply with the new prohibitions.
  • Judicial System: The bill may lead to changes in how courts handle jury selection and the evaluation of peremptory challenges, potentially increasing the workload for judges.

Legislative Timeline

  • January 21, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to Codes.
  • April 9, 2025: First report calendar.
  • April 10, 2025: Second report calendar.
  • April 15, 2025: Advanced to third reading.
  • May 12, 2025: Passed in the Senate and delivered to the Assembly, where it was again referred to Codes.

Related Bills

  • S 5574: A prior-session bill that may have addressed similar issues.
  • A 317: A companion bill in the Assembly that aligns with the objectives of S 2491.

Conclusion

Bill S 2491 represents a significant step towards eliminating discriminatory practices in jury selection. By prohibiting certain peremptory challenges, the bill aims to foster a more just legal system that upholds the principles of equality and fairness for all individuals involved in the judicial process.

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

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