Marsy's Law

Voters will decide in the November 2019 election whether to change the Pennsylvania Constitution to give crime victims a bill of rights.

Known as Marsy’s Law, this initiative would ensure crime victims receive information about their rights; receive notification of proceedings in their criminal cases; be present at court hearings; be heard at plea and sentencing proceedings; and be treated with fairness, respect and dignity.

Since it is a proposed constitutional change, the language in Marsy’s Law legislation needed to pass in two consecutive sessions of the Pennsylvania General Assembly (first as Senate Bill 1011 and most recently as House Bill 276). It will be placed as a referendum question on ballots for voters to decide.

Marsy’s Law is named after Marsalee “Marsy” Nicholas of California. She was stalked and killed by her ex-boyfriend in 1983, then, just days later, her mother and brother were confronted by the accused murderer in a grocery store. They were unaware the defendant had been released on bail.
To honor his sister, Henry Nicholas has made it his life’s mission to give victims and their families constitutional protections and equal rights.

“Victims and their families deserve to be informed and heard as part of restorative justice,” said Rep. Sheryl Delozier (R-Cumberland), who sponsored House Bill 276.

Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault Resources

Domestic Violence Services of Cumberland and Perry Counties

Harrisburg Area YWCA Violence Intervention and Prevention Services

Sexual Assault/Rape Crisis Services of Cumberland County

Pennsylvania Office of Victim Advocate