Gov. Sununu Says Marsy’s Law Could Go On November Ballot

CONCORD,NH – Governor Chris Sununu, House and Senate lawmakers, law enforcement leaders and crime victims gathered to show support for legislation to help crime victims.

This afternoon the Governor announced that the constitutional amendment known as Marsy’s Law could go on the November ballot.

The amendment would require prosecutors to inform victims of proceedings involving the accused and the right for them to be heard in hearings involving the release, sentencing and parole.

Attorney General Gordon MacDonald, Senate Minority Leader Jeff Woodburn, and victims of crime and their families joined Governor Sununu as he announced his support for Marsy’s Law.

The Governor said “When victims of crime find the strength to come forward and engage in the criminal justice process we must ensure that they have basic rights and protections in place. Victims of crime deserve equal constitutional rights – the same rights as defendants. No more, no less. Let’s get this done.”

Amanda Grady Sexton, Director of Public Affairs for New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence and State Director for Marsy’s Law for All said “There is a critical imbalance that exists within the criminal justice system in New Hampshire. We are proud to be a part of a broad coalition working to clarify and enhance the rights of victims of crime.”

The law is in honor of Marsalee “Marsy” Nicholas, a California student who was killed in 1983 by a former boyfriend. The national effort is led by her brother, Dr. Henry Nicholas. A week after she was killed, Henry Nicholas and his mother crossed paths with the suspect in a grocery store. They were never informed that he was released on bail.