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SF2099 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))

Victim notification extension to order for protection and harassment restraining order violations not prosecuted

Related bill: HF1998

AI Generated Summary

This bill aims to enhance victim notification procedures regarding violations of orders for protection and harassment restraining orders, even when such cases are not prosecuted. It updates and clarifies the responsibilities of law enforcement agencies and prosecutors in informing victims of their rights and available services. Key provisions include:

  1. Expansion of Victim Notification:

    • Law enforcement officers must provide victims with updated information about their rights and available services at the time of initial contact.
    • A supplemental notice specifically for homicide cases will be distributed with relevant resources.

  2. Prosecutor Responsibilities:

    • Prosecutors must make reasonable efforts to notify victims if they decide not to prosecute cases involving domestic assault, criminal sexual conduct, harassment, or stalking.
    • Efforts to notify victims should prioritize direct contact, including phone calls or emails, particularly before a suspect’s release.
    • If charges are dismissed, prosecutors must document the reasons, especially when a witness is unavailable.
    • Prosecutors must also inform victims about the possibility of obtaining an order for protection or restraining order without a fee.

  3. Law Enforcement Notification:

    • Peace officers must orally inform victims of available shelters or services and provide an updated written notice of their legal rights, including options for obtaining protective orders.
    • The written notice must include information on available local and statewide victim support programs.

  4. Implementation and Transition:

    • Agencies may continue using existing notice materials until their supplies are exhausted before adopting the new modifications.

This bill strengthens victim protections by ensuring they receive timely and clear information about their rights, available legal remedies, and support services.

Bill text versions

Actions

DateChamberWhereTypeNameCommittee Name
March 02, 2025HouseFloorActionIntroduction and first reading
March 02, 2025SenateFloorActionIntroduction and first reading
March 02, 2025HouseFloorActionReferred toJudiciary and Public Safety
March 02, 2025SenateFloorActionReferred toJudiciary and Public Safety
SenateNoteActionHF substituted in committee

Citations

 
[
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "Requirements for electronic distribution of victim notification."
      ],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "This bill modifies notification of victim services and victims' rights under section 611A.02.",
      "modified": [
        "Clarifies distribution timeline for crime victim rights notices."
      ]
    },
    "citation": "611A.02",
    "subdivision": "subdivision 2"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "Includes a written statement that must be provided to victims regarding their rights."
      ],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "This bill modifies the notice of rights for victims of domestic violence under section 629.341.",
      "modified": [
        "Updates language used in the notice to improve clarity."
      ]
    },
    "citation": "629.341",
    "subdivision": "subdivision 3"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "New provisions for email notifications to victims."
      ],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "Updates victim notification requirements in cases of domestic assault, criminal sexual conduct, harassment, or stalking under section 611A.0315.",
      "modified": [
        "Clarifies the hierarchy of notification methods for victims."
      ]
    },
    "citation": "611A.0315",
    "subdivision": ""
  }
]

Sponsors