Senate passes crime victim amendment that would provide victims with host of rights

MADISON — The Wisconsin Senate has passed a state constitutional amendment that would provide crime victims with a host of rights.

The Senate voted 29-4 to approve the amendment Tuesday.

The Wisconsin Constitution and statutes already provide victims extensive rights. The amendment largely duplicates the existing language but goes further in several areas.

In addition to privacy, victims would have the right to be heard at plea, parole and revocation proceedings, the right to refuse defense attorneys' interview, deposition or discovery requests and the right to attend all proceedings in their cases.

The Senate decided on a voice vote to delate language allowing victims to seal their records.

The Assembly is scheduled to consider the measure Thursday.

A constitutional amendment must pass two consecutive legislative sessions and a statewide referendum.