County prosecutors and representatives of victims’ advocates say they’re against a proposed state Constitutional measure on victims’ rights.
The measure is dubbed “Marsy’s Law” – and it will be on the ballot in November.
Marsy’s Law is based on California law – and is being pushed by California millionaire Henry Nicholas, who has contributed more than $1 million to the effort.
The groups say the measure has good intentions – but could lead to unintended consequences – such as more court cases and delays in decisions.
"We know a one-size-fits-all approach like Marsy's Law is not what's best for the victims in North Dakota," said North Dakota Council on Abused Women's Services executive director Janelle Moos. "And we encourage a more transparent process, specifically during the Legislative session, that allows for solid conversations on how we move forward together as a state."
Renee Stromme of the North Dakota Women’s Network says the law would create unfunded mandates.
"The proposed measure would not help improve victims' services," Stromme said. "And in some circumstances, it will harm crime victims, because it diverts existing services away from violent crimes, sex crimes and felony property crimes."
"This was a tough call," said North Dakota States' Attorneys Association Executive Director Aaron Birst. "But after a lot of discussion and deliberation, it was felt that this measure just does not live up to what it's designed to do -- and in fact does the inverse, causing more problems, more litigation that victims would have to go through."
In a statement, supporters of Marsy’s Law say the opponents are – in their words – “showing their callous disregard for equal rights for crime victims in North Dakota.” They also say the opponents are telling voters that offenders’ rights are more important than victims’ rights.
