Crime victims may know nothing about an abuser's case. Marsy's Law changes that.
Supporting survivors of domestic violence is a critical responsibility for our communities, and there is still much work to be done to protect victims, their families, and their rights.
Strengthening laws that safeguard those impacted by domestic violence is essential to ensuring they receive the protection and justice they deserve. Marsy's Law, a proposed constitutional amendment, is a crucial step in guaranteeing that survivors have a voice and are treated fairly within the legal system.
In Tennessee, roughly 40% of women and 37% of men will experience some form of domestic violence in their lifetime, affecting millions of individuals each year. For survivors, the suffering doesn't end with the abuse. The legal system can often become an additional source of trauma by overlooking their needs and silencing and their voices.
Marsy's Law aims to change that by giving crime victims fundamental rights in legal proceedings, something that many assume already exists.
In 1983, Marsy Nicholas, a student at the University of California, Santa Barbara, was stalked and tragically killed by her ex-boyfriend. Her family, unaware of her murderer's release from custody, had a shocking and unexpected run-in with him at the grocery store only a week after her death.
Had Marsy's Law been in place then, the Nicholas family would have been notified of any transfer or release of her murderer. Strengthened constitutional protections would have shielded the Nicholas family from the additional trauma.
Without adequate legal protections, survivors may be forced to live in constant fear of encountering their abuser in public, or not being informed of crucial stages of their abuser's case.
Marsy's Law, however, will give victims the right to be notified of any significant changes, such as the release or transfer of the offender, while also protecting their right to be heard during sentencing and parole hearings. This empowerment is critical to the healing of survivors and their families.
Passing Marsy's Law is not just about legislative action — it's about sending a message that Tennessee is committed to prioritizing the rights of victims over criminals. While everyone deserves a fair trial, innocent victims deserve fairness and protections, as well as the right to be treated with dignity and respect by the legal system.
Earlier this session, the Tennessee State Senate (Senate Joint Resolution 9) passed Marsy's Law 28-4. Companion House Join Resolution 48 is moving its way through House this week, it will be back in front of the House Finance Subcommittee.
I am proud to be the new bill sponsor for this monumental legislation, and I am grateful to Rep. Clay Doggett, R-Pulaski, for carrying it this far through the House committee process.
Real, meaningful changes to the lives of victims in Tennessee start with the passage of meaningful legislation, like Marsy's Law. In doing so, we reaffirm our commitment to building a society where survivors are empowered, their rights are protected, and their voices are heard.
Call your legislator and encourage them to stand with domestic violence victims and support Marsy's Law.
Speaker Cameron Sexton, R-Crossville, represents Cumberland and part of Putnam Counties. He was elected Speaker of the Tennessee State House in 2019.
This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Marsy's Law puts TN crime victims ahead of their abusers | Opinion
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