Commonwealth Policy Center

The Kentucky Supreme Court struck down Marsy’s Law. This was the constitutional amendment that shored up rights for crime victims. It updated our laws to include the right to be notified of court proceedings and whether a convicted criminal has been let out on parole. It was a popular measure and passed by 63 percent of Kentucky voters. However, the state Supreme Court said the question on the ballot was too vague. The legislature modified the ballot language to hit the high points of what the law intended to do. However, the court said that the General Assembly must submit the full text of a proposed constitutional amendment to the electorate for a vote. If it passes, it will be on the ballot next year, this time with amended language.