April 14, 2016 - Assemblywoman Kimberly Jean-Pierre (D-Babylon) announced that she helped pass a legislative package aimed to protect and help crime victims.
“With this package of bills, New York State sends the message that we will help crime victims and their families recover,” said Jean-Pierre. “They deserve more support during such difficult times.”
The legislation, which was passed during National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (April 10-16), includes measures to strengthen procedures for identifying and providing prompt support for victims of human trafficking, including enhanced housing and counseling (A.2953-A). Another measure expands the activities of an interagency task force to further combat human trafficking (A.9317).
The Assembly also passed a bill to help victims of rape by clarifying that rape is defined as any nonconsensual sex act (A.4959-B). This will help more victims of sexual assault see justice served, noted Jean-Pierre.
Another measure expands victims’ benefits to include out-of-pocket counseling expenses for domestic partners of homicide victims (A.3694-A). In addition, the Assembly passed a bill to require that victims be informed of their right to submit a statement to the state Parole Board when their perpetrator is being considered for parole (A.6945). The package also includes a bill that protects the rights of tenants to report criminal acts – including domestic violence – without fear of losing their housing (A.1322).
“This legislation will help victims and their family members get the assistance they need to move on with their lives,” said Jean-Pierre. “No one should face the prospect of overcoming darkness and hardship alone.”