Bill > HB450

This bill, titled "Criminal Procedure - Protection of Identity of Victim of Sexual Assault or Stalking," aims to enhance the privacy of victims in criminal and juvenile delinquency cases by requiring courts and parties to redact identifying information from court filings and records before they are disclosed or made available for inspection by non-parties. "Identifying information" is defined to include names and any other details that could reasonably identify a minor victim, a victim of sexual assault, or a victim of stalking. A "victim of sexual assault" is defined as someone alleging sexually assaultive behavior, and a "victim of stalking" is defined as someone alleging stalking as defined by law. The bill generally prohibits the disclosure or inspection of these records unless the court finds clear and convincing evidence of good cause to allow it, or unless the identifying information is redacted. Importantly, it allows for exceptions where a Health Occupations Board, which licenses or certifies a defendant or respondent, can petition the court to access unredacted records for the purpose of investigating or disciplining the professional for sexual misconduct, provided the victim is notified and has an opportunity to object. If no objection is made, such an investigation can be considered good cause for disclosure, but the Health Occupations Board is prohibited from publicly disclosing the obtained records. The bill also reiterates the existing provision that courts may prohibit the release of a victim or witness's address or telephone number unless good cause is shown.