07/21/2008 GAAS:562:08 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Print Version | Email / Share
Gov. Schwarzenegger Signs Legislation Increasing Protections for Crime Victims
Building on Governor Schwarzenegger's strong public safety record, today he signed a package of legislation that increases protections for crime victims and victim witnesses in California. Among the four bills signed, one boosts privacy protections for victim witnesses in sexual offense cases and another improves the notification process for victims who request a restraining order.
"We must do everything we can to protect crime victims and keep them safe," Governor Schwarzenegger said. "I am pleased to sign this package of legislation that adds important new protections into law for Californians."
AB 1424 By Assemblymember Mike Davis (D-Los Angeles) provides greater penalties for violations of restraining or stay-away orders in criminal proceedings involving elder or dependent adult abuse.
AB 2068 by Assemblymember Greg Aghazarian (R-Stockton) authorizes a public safety official to notify a victim by email or phone within 24 hours after serving a restraining order in cases of harassment, workplace violence, domestic violence or elder abuse.
AB 2289 by Assemblymember Sharon Runner (R-Lancaster) codifies the rights of victims of juvenile offenders, affording them the same rights as victims of adult offenders regarding access to information, notification and hearings/proceedings regardless of the age of the offender.
AB 2410 by Assemblymember Pedro Nava (D-Santa Barbara) protects the identifying information, including name, address and telephone number, of victim witnesses who testify in civil sexual violent predator proceedings.
In April, Governor Schwarzenegger presented the Governor's 2008 Crime Victim Advocacy Awards to 12 individuals and organizations that have made exceptional contributions to the support and service of victims of violent crimes. Also, that month he proclaimed April 13-19 as "Crime Victims' Rights Week" in honor of the hundreds of crime victim advocates in California who work tirelessly to support victims.
Last year, the Governor signed a package of bills that also increased protections for crime victims in California. One bill extended the victim notification requirement from 45 to 60 days prior to when a sex offender is released from an institution; other bills protected victims of continuous child abuse by prohibiting an offender from going within 35 miles of the child's residence and made clarifications to Jessica's Law for more effective implementation.
