Bill Text: MI SR0045 | 2017-2018 | 99th Legislature | Enrolled
Bill Title: A resolution to observe Crime Victims’ Rights.
Spectrum: Partisan Bill (Republican 1-0)
Status: (Passed) 2017-04-25 - Adopted [SR0045 Detail]
Download: Michigan-2017-SR0045-Enrolled.html
SR45, As Adopted by Senate, April 25, 2017
Senator Schuitmaker offered the following resolution:
Senate Resolution No. 45.
A resolution to observe Crime Victims’ Rights.
Whereas, Since 1985 the people of Michigan have had comprehensive laws to protect the rights of crime victims, and to help victims travel the difficult path from victim to survivor; and
Whereas, Though Michigan continues to make strides in reducing the crime rate, we still have far too many victims of crime. For over 40 years the research indicates that less than half of crimes are reported, and yet in 2015 Michigan families reported over 145,000 new victims of violent crime, and over a quarter million victims of other crimes; and
Whereas, We recognize that our response to crime victims plays an important role in their efforts to rebuild their lives following the offense. We all should strive to do what we can to respond to victims of crime with compassion and respect; and
Whereas, Crime victims possess the constitutional civil right to be treated with fairness and respect for their dignity and privacy throughout the criminal justice process. Our goal should be to adhere not only to the crime victim's rights laws, but to the spirit of those laws as well; and
Whereas, The millions of Michigan citizens who have suffered a violation of their person, property, or trust deserve to be treated with dignity and respect by our criminal and juvenile justice systems and by society at-large; and
Whereas, The national theme for 2017 is “Strength. Resilience. Justice.” reminding us of the importance of the restoration of hope and quality of life for victims as they focus on their healing and recover; and
Whereas, The victim services community has worked diligently for decades to create an environment for victims that is safe, supportive, and effective; and
Whereas, Intervening early with services that support and empower victims provides a pathway to recovery from crime and abuse; and
Whereas, Serving victims and rebuilding their trust restores hope to victims and survivors, as well as their communities; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Senate, That we hereby express our support of victim rights with a vigil on April 25, 2017, at the State Capitol and we reaffirm this state’s commitment to protecting the rights of crime victims, and addressing their needs throughout the remainder of the year.
