Relates to the eligibility for awards for victims of a crime; includes the commission of suicide within two years after being a victim of a crime as a death that is the direct result of a crime.
Summary
Bill S00993 amends the executive law to expand the eligibility criteria for awards for victims of crime. It allows for surviving spouses of crime victims who died from causes not directly related to the crime to claim awards if the victim died before filing a claim or after filing but before a decision was made. Additionally, the bill introduces a provision that deems a victim of a crime who commits suicide within two years of the crime as having died as a direct result of that crime, unless determined otherwise by the office.
Impact
The bill impacts state laws by redefining the criteria under which victims of crime and their families can receive awards. It specifically acknowledges the psychological effects of crime on victims, allowing for claims related to suicide within a specified timeframe. This change may lead to an increase in claims filed by families of victims who have taken their own lives after experiencing a crime, potentially affecting the resources and processes of the office responsible for administering these awards.
Sentiment
The general sentiment around Bill S00993 appears to be supportive, as it addresses a significant gap in the current law regarding the aftermath of victimization. However, there may be concerns regarding the implementation of the new provisions and the criteria for determining causality in suicide cases, which could lead to debates in committee discussions.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise around the determination of whether a suicide is a direct result of being a crime victim. Some may argue that this could lead to subjective interpretations and potential misuse of the provisions. Additionally, there may be concerns from lawmakers about the financial implications of expanding eligibility for awards, particularly if the number of claims increases significantly.
Same As
Relates to the eligibility for awards for victims of a crime; includes the commission of suicide within two years after being a victim of a crime as a death that is the direct result of a crime.
Relates to the eligibility for awards for victims of a crime; includes the commission of suicide within two years after being a victim of a crime as a death that is the direct result of a crime.
Requires the division of criminal justice services to present an annual report on perpetrators of violent crimes resulting in the death of a crime victim.
Crimes and procedure; crimes of indecent exposure and other sex crimes further provided to include additional victims; crime of inpatient custodial sexual misconduct, established; domestic violence offenses, further provided to include additional victims and criminal penalties
Relates to offenses involving theft of identity; creates five tiers of crimes, based on the financial loss to the victim(s) and the number of people victimized.