An amendment to the South Dakota Constitution revising certain provisions relating to the rights of crime victims

South Dakota Ballot Measure - Constitutional Amendment Y

Election: June 5, 2018 (Primary)

Outcome: Passed

Categories:

Criminal Justice

Summary


In 2016 the voters approved Marsy's Law, which expanded rights for crime victims and placed them in the state constitution. This amendment makes changes to Marsy's Law.

The amendment narrows the definition of "victim" to mean a person against whom a crime or delinquent act is committed. If the victim is killed, incapacitated, or a minor, then "victim" may include that person's spouse, parent, child, sibling, grandparents, or guardian.

The amendment makes it clear that a victim must make an affirmative request to receive the benefits of several of the rights provided by Marsy's Law. In addition, the amendment clarifies that law enforcement is allowed to share information with the public to help solve crimes.

The amendment also provides that a person may not file a lawsuit for money damages against the State, local governments, or their officers and employees, if the person's rights under Marsy's Law are violated.

Vote "Yes" to adopt the amendment.

Vote "No" to leave the Constitution as it is.

Resources


Official Summary

Source
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