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Committee hears plan for victim-notification task force to resolve DOC–prosecutor data gaps
Summary
Sponsors described a task force in S 109 that would review the state's victim notification process, expand automated notification options, ensure trauma-informed communications, and report back by Nov. 15; sponsors said victims would need to opt in to receive 90-day status notices.
Senate Judiciary committee members heard discussion of a provision in S 109 that would create a victim notification system task force to address information gaps between the Department of Corrections and prosecutors' offices and to improve how victims are notified about incarcerated persons' sentence-reduction or status updates.
The task force, described in testimony as originating from input by Jennifer Coleman, would review the current victim notification system, explore ways to improve accessibility and trauma-informed communications, expand automated notification options, and recommend training and resource needs. Sponsors said the group would report to legislative oversight committees and to corrections and institutions committees; the bill text sets a reporting date of Nov. 15.
Representative Evans explained that under current practice the inmate is notified about every 90 days regarding sentence reduction status, and the proposal would add victims to that 90-day notice cycle on an opt-in basis. “It would be up to the victim to opt in or opt out to receive the notice,” Evans said. Evans and other members cited a disconnect between state prosecutors’ offices and DOC about what information is shared and the timing of notifications.
Sponsors said the automated notification system (described in testimony as the system DOC contracts to provide) would be a route for expanded notifications but that the task force would also examine the role of victim advocates in state’s attorney offices and DOC’s internal processes. Committee members reported no recorded opposition during prior testimony.
Lawmakers did not take a formal vote on the task force provision during the hearing. The committee noted the provision will move forward as part of S 109 subject to committee drafting and potential revisions; staff said they would return with further changes and expect the administration’s input.
