FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 14, 2017

Mesquite Mayor Makes It Clear He Supports Victims’ Rights and Marsy’s Law for NV

Marsy’s Law for Nevada is proud to announce the support of another respected southern Nevada leader. Mesquite Mayor Allan Litman is adding his name to the growing list of Nevada community leaders who believe Nevadans should approve Marsy’s Law and protect the rights of crime victims.

Litman was elected twice to the Mesquite City Council prior to being elected as Mayor. The Vietnam War veteran received the Bronze Star and an Air Medal for his distinguished service while in the Army. During his career, Mayor Litman has a long history showing his dedication to his neighbors. With his endorsement of Marsy’s Law Litman joins outstanding civic leaders including North Las Vegas Mayor John Lee, Reno Mayor Hillary Schieve, Elko Mayor Chris Johnson, and Retired Henderson Mayor Andy Hafen.

Just as the accused have important protected rights, advocates and supporters of Marsy’s Law for Nevada believe the victims of crime deserve a protected voice, information, and consideration. Marsy’s Law has passed two consecutive sessions of the Nevada Legislature in 2015 and 2017. Voters of Nevada will have the opportunity to vote on the question in November 2018.

Equal Rights for Nevada Crime Victims. It’s just fair. #VictimsRightsNV

SJR 17 would ensure the:

• Right to receive information about the services available to crime victims.
• Right to be treated with fairness and respect throughout the criminal justice process * Right to be protected from the defendant.
• Right to notice of all public proceedings in the case.
• Right to be reasonably heard, upon request, at all public proceedings regarding the case.
• Right to reasonably confer with the prosecuting agency, upon request, regarding the case.
• Right to full and timely restitution

History of Marsy’s Law

The effort is named after Marsalee “Marsy” Nicholas who was murdered by her ex-boyfriend in California in 1983. A week later he was released pending his court proceedings and went face to face with the victim’s family, who had no idea he was out of jail. Today her brother, Dr. Henry T. Nicholas is working to secure a voice and protection for victims and their families, nationwide. Marsy’s Law measures have already passed in Illinois, California, North Dakota, South Dakota and Montana.

Senate Joint Resolution 17

SJR 17 was first approved by Nevada state lawmakers in 2015 and again in 2017 as required by Nevada law for a constitutional amendment. The measure will now go to a vote of Nevada residents in 2018 as a ballot question.