DE HB166

Changes the Victims' Compensation Council from adopting rules and regulations to reviewing and commenting on rules proposed by the Agency, with authority to recommend adoption, amendment, or rescission of policies.

Transfers rulemaking authority from the Council to the Agency, which must obtain Department of Justice approval for rules and regulations required to carry out the chapter.

Establishes a tiered claims determination process where the Agency decides claims under $12,500 (with an Appeals Board member contacted for emergency claims) and the Agency plus one Appeals Board member decide claims exceeding $12,500.

Increases the minimum penalty assessment for crimes from 18 percent of fines to either 18 percent or $10 per offense of conviction, whichever is greater.

Renames the "Violent Crimes Compensation Board" to the "Victims' Compensation Assistance Program Appeals Board" and clarifies provisions regarding closed meetings and public records related to sensitive claims involving sexual offenses, children, or unadjudicated matters.