HB 177 – Gives the judge presiding in certain sexual offense cases discretion to disclose information regarding the defendant, which could be used to identify the victim, to avoid protecting the defendant's identity

• Sponsor: Bartle
• LR Number: 0599S.05T
• Committee: Judiciary and Civil and Criminal Jurisprudence
• Last Action: 7/7/2009 - Signed by Governor
• Title: SCS HCS HB 177 & HCS HB 622
• Effective Date: August 28, 2009
• House Handler: Cox

Current Bill Summary

SCS/HCS/HB 177 and HCS/HB 622 - Currently, any identifying information in a court record that could be used to identify the victim of sexual assault, domestic assault, stalking, or rape shall be closed and redacted prior to public disclosure. This act gives the judge presiding in such cases discretion to publicly disclose information regarding the defendant, which could be used to identify the victim. The victim may provide the court with a statement regarding whether he or she wishes such information to remain closed. The judge shall consider the welfare and safety of the victim and the victim's statement when deciding to disclose the information.

This act is similar to SB 181 (2009).

SUSAN HENDERSON MOORE