summary
Introduced
01/06/2025
01/06/2025
In Committee
01/21/2025
01/21/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
26th Council
Bill Summary
A BILL IN THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA To amend the Illegal Firearm Sale and Distribution Strict Liability Act of 1992 to set a minimum payment of $50,000 for any person who provides information that leads to the adjudication or conviction of the person or persons responsible for committing any homicide in the District of Columbia, and to direct the Mayor to advertise information regarding witness assistance resources that may be available to those who provide information; to amend the Homeland Security, Risk Reduction, and Preparedness Amendment Act of 2006 to require that the Comprehensive Homicide elimination Strategy Task Force submit to the Council a report on the District’s programs and policies for witness protection, relocation, and assistance, and recommendations for improvement; and to establish a Witness Protection and Assistance Program to support the investigation and prosecution of criminal cases through assistance in the security and wellbeing of those who aid in investigations or criminal proceedings.
AI Summary
This bill introduces comprehensive measures to support witnesses in criminal cases in the District of Columbia, with three primary components. First, it amends existing law to mandate a minimum $50,000 payment to individuals who provide information leading to the conviction of homicide perpetrators, while explicitly prohibiting law enforcement and criminal justice employees from receiving such rewards. Second, it requires the Comprehensive Homicide Elimination Strategy Task Force to produce a detailed report by December 1, 2025, analyzing current witness protection procedures, evaluating performance metrics, reviewing national best practices, and recommending improvements to witness assistance programs. Third, the bill establishes a formal Witness Protection and Assistance Program administered by the Mayor in coordination with the U.S. Attorney's Office, which will provide comprehensive support to witnesses facing substantial personal danger due to their cooperation with criminal investigations or legal proceedings. This support can include physical protection, relocation, housing expenses, transportation, identity protection, living expenses, mental health support, wage reimbursement, childcare, and other necessary services, with provisions to extend protection to the witness's family, friends, or associates who may also be endangered. The goal is to enhance public safety, encourage witness participation in criminal proceedings, and provide meaningful support to those who help law enforcement solve and prosecute serious crimes.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (4)
Last Action
Public Hearing Held (on 04/24/2025)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://lims.dccouncil.gov/Legislation/B26-0027 |
| BillText | https://lims.dccouncil.gov/downloads/LIMS/56858/Introduction/B26-0027-Introduction.pdf |
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