Shall the Nevada Constitution be amended to provide specifically for the rights of victims of crime?
The proposed amendment to the Nevada Constitution would require the Legislature to provide by law for certain rights of victims of crime. These rights would include the right to be: 1. Informed of the status of criminal proceedings related to the crime; 2. Present at public hearings in the critical stages of such proceedings; and 3. Heard at proceedings for the sentencing or release of a convicted person. Under the provisions of the amendment, a person may not bring a lawsuit for damages based on a violation of these rights. Also, such a violation is not a reason to set aside a conviction or sentence or to continue or postpone a criminal proceeding. However, a person may initiate an action to compel a public officer or employee to carry out duties associated with victims’ rights. Fiscal Note – The proposal to amend the Nevada Constitution would provide specifically for the rights of victims of crime. The notification of victims required by the proposal may be provided through one or mo
