Summary
Requires courts to order criminals to repay necessary costs to a person who has taken on a victim's rights, such as for travel or child care.
What problem does this solve?
It was unclear if people helping crime victims could be paid back for their own expenses, like lost pay or travel costs, during a court case. This law requires courts to order criminals to repay those specific costs to the person who is representing the victim.
Who does this affect?
- Crime victims
- Families of crime victims
- Legal representatives of victims
What does this law do?
Covers costs for participating in the case
Requires criminals to repay the victim's representative for lost income, child care, and travel costs related to helping with the investigation or going to court.
Covers costs for medical-related travel
Requires criminals to repay the victim's representative for lost income and travel costs when taking the victim to get medical, mental health, or other professional care.
Covers costs for therapy-related travel
Requires criminals to repay the victim's representative for lost income and travel costs when taking the victim to get physical or occupational therapy.
What is the real world impact?
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Reduces the financial burden on victim representatives
Ensures that family members or others who step in to help a crime victim are not left with large bills for travel, child care, or lost wages. This encourages people to support victims without fearing financial hardship.
When does this start?
This law takes effect on July 30, 2024.