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Senate OKs victims' rights proposal for November ballot

HARRISBURG — Pennsylvania voters will decide whether to enumerate victims’ rights in the state constitution, a proposal likely to appear on the November ballot.

The state Senate voted unanimously Wednesday to give its final approval, putting the state’s version of Marsy’s Law on the ballot as a constitutional amendment referendum.

The proposed amendment would give victims the right to be notified about, attend and weigh in during plea hearings, sentencings and parole proceedings.

Supporters argue there is a need to guarantee that victims aren’t ignored in criminal proceedings.

Opponents, including the ACLU and defense attorneys, have said they are concerned the amendment could impinge on defendants’ right to a fair and speedy trial, and that the amendment contains vague, formulaic language.

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