Senator Rob Rolison, ranking member of the Crime Victims and Corrections Committee, underscored the urgency of the issue, stating, “Public safety must always be the first priority of government. That means not only preventing crime, but ensuring that those who have already endured it are supported, protected, and never left to live in fear in the aftermath.”
Drawing on his law enforcement background, Rolison added, “We stand with victims, we stand with survivors, and we will continue working to ensure they have the resources, protections, and justice they deserve.”
Senator Dean Murray said the roundtables revealed deep frustration among victims. “It is abundantly clear that for far too long, crime victims… have been ignored and forgotten,” he said.
“We held these Roundtables to make sure that we heard from all of those who are involved in the criminal justice process… to ensure that they are genuinely heard and their concerns are prioritized.”
The lawmakers outlined a five-bill package shaped by months of roundtable discussions across the state, bringing together lawmakers, advocates, service providers, and law enforcement.
The proposals include measures addressing legal procedures, requiring annual reporting on violent crime fatalities, changes to Raise the Age, creation of a statewide crime victims advocate, and clarification of strangulation laws.
Senator Patrick Gallivan emphasized the need for systemic change, stating, “Those directly impacted by crime often feel forgotten and do not always receive the services they deserve… We must pass legislation to better support crime victims and their families.”
Senator Steve Rhoads sharply criticized current policies, saying, “Too many victims feel invisible, unheard, and left without the support they deserve… policies like bail reform… have too often put criminals first instead of victims and public safety.”
Lawmakers said a full “Crime Victims Agenda Report” will be released in the coming weeks, outlining additional reforms informed by testimony gathered statewide.