Bill Text: GA HR2149 | 2009-2010 | Regular Session | Introduced

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Bill Title: Crime Victims' Rights Week at the state capitol; April 18-24, 2010; recognize

Spectrum: Partisan Bill (Republican 1-0)

Status: (Passed) 2010-04-21 - House Read and Adopted [HR2149 Detail]

Download: Georgia-2009-HR2149-Introduced.html

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10 LC 94 3343

House Resolution 2149

By: Representative Ralston of the 7th

A RESOLUTION

Recognizing April 18-24, 2010, as Crime Victims' Rights Week at the state capitol; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, 21 million Americans suffer the indignity of crime each year and may experience emotional, physical, psychological, and financial harm as a result; and

WHEREAS, a just nation acknowledges crime's impact on individuals, families, and communities, and ensures that victims are treated with fairness, dignity, and respect as they interact with the criminal justice system; and

WHEREAS, 25 years ago, the President's Task Force on Victims of Crime drew attention to the poor treatment of victims in the criminal justice system, calling it "indifferent" to victims' needs; and

WHEREAS, a decades-long struggle to balance the scales of justice resulted in victims' rights laws in every state and more than 32 state constitutional victims' rights amendments that enshrine the ideals of fairness, dignity, and respect for the victims of crime; and

WHEREAS, treating victims with dignity serves the public interest by engaging victims in the justice system, inspiring respect for public authorities, and promoting confidence in public safety; and

WHEREAS, there is more to be done to advance these ideals as too many victims are denied their right to attend trial, present an impact statement at sentencing, or receive notice of the release of an offender; and

WHEREAS, further action is needed to ensure the fair treatment of crime victims, including protecting child and sexual assault victims, ordering and ensuring victim restitution from offenders, and notifying victims of their right to compensation and services; and
WHEREAS, National Crime Victims' Rights Week provides an opportunity to raise awareness of the foundation of victims' rights and to ensuring that all victims are afforded their legal rights and provided with assistance as they face the financial, physical, and psychological impact of crime; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that Georgia participate in National Crime Victims' Rights Week.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that the members of this body recognize April 18-24, 2010, as Crime Victims' Rights Week at the state capitol.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized and directed to transmit appropriate copies of this resolution to members of the public and the press.