More than 300 victims’ rights advocates are expected to rally at the state capitol Thursday to encourage legislators to pass Marsy’s Law for Georgia, which supporters say will elevate victims’ rights to the state constitution.
Marsy’s Law passed the Senate last session and now awaits House passage before it can appear before voters later this year.
Senate Resolution 146 is Georgia's version of Marsy's Law. It's backed by a California billionaire, Dr. Henry Nicholas, whose sister Marsy was murdered by her ex-boyfriend in 1983.
Thirty-five other states have already amended their constitutions to give some level of protection to crime victims.
"We're elevating victims voices to the same level as those of the accused," said Ann Casas, state director for Marsy's Law for Georgia. "Victims didn't ask to be victimized."
The resolution needs approval by two-thirds of the Georgia House of Representatives and Georgia Senate to get on the ballot in 2018.
The amendment would to give crime victims the following rights:
- Timely notice of all hearings involving the accused.
- A chance to be heard in any decisions involving parole, pleas or sentencing.
- Notice of an inmate's release or escape.
- Restitution
SR 146 has bipartisan support, but a similar measure last year was tabled.
It's getting pushback from some prosecutors who say victims already have protections under state law.
Right now, crime victims can register with the state through their victim impact statements or by contacting the Georgia Office of Victim Services.
