The Senate passed bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Christopher “Kip” Bateman to include the domestic or civil union partner of a homicide victim among those eligible to receive compensation, as well as certain protections and rights from the criminal justice system.
Sen. Kip Bateman’s legislation expands eligibility for loved ones of crime victims to receive benefits and rights from the criminal justice system. (©iStock)
The legislation, S-180, revises the definition of “victim” under the “Crime Victim’s Bill of Rights” to be more consistent with the definition of “victim” in the New Jersey Constitution. Under the legislation, “victim” will now include the spouse, parent, legal guardian, grandparent, child or sibling of the decedent in the case of a criminal homicide or act of juvenile delinquency that would constitute criminal homicide if committed by an adult.
Read the rest of Bateman Bill Expanding Eligibility for Benefits Under “Crime Victim’s Bill of Rights” Passes Senate (121 words)