Bill > H1789

This bill establishes a new legal framework for monitoring and managing profits generated by individuals who have been charged with or convicted of a crime. The legislation creates a comprehensive system where any entity (called a "contracting party") that wants to pay or contract with a criminal must first notify the Division of Victim Compensation and Assistance within 30 days, submit details of their agreement, and file a bond equal to the potential proceeds. The division will investigate whether the contract involves proceeds substantially related to the criminal activity, and if so, can hold the bond to potentially satisfy future civil claims by victims. The bill defines key terms like "crime" (serious offenses punishable by imprisonment), "proceeds of crime" (assets obtained through unique knowledge or notoriety from a criminal act), and "victim" (individuals directly harmed by the crime). Additionally, the bill extends the statute of limitations for victims to file civil actions against a criminal defendant, allowing them to bring suit within three years of the last public notice about a potential contract. The overall purpose is to prevent criminals from profiting from their illegal activities and to provide a mechanism for victims to potentially recover damages, while ensuring transparency and oversight of any contracts involving individuals who have committed crimes.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1789