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NC S634

Bill

Status

Introduced

3/25/2025

Primary Sponsor

Woodson Bradley

Click for details

Origin

Senate

2025-2026 Session

AI Summary

  • Allows hearsay statements to be admitted as evidence when a party wrongfully caused the declarant's unavailability as a witness, such as when an abuser kills or intimidates a victim to prevent testimony

  • Extends the statute of limitations for domestic violence misdemeanors from 2 years to 10 years for crimes requiring judicial determination of pretrial release conditions

  • Authorizes domestic violence victims to testify remotely (outside the physical presence of the defendant) in criminal proceedings if the defendant does not object or if the court finds the victim would suffer serious emotional distress testifying in the defendant's presence

  • Requires the State to provide at least 15 business days notice before using remote testimony, with defendants having 5 business days to file written objections

  • Mandates that remote testimony technology allow the judge, jury, and defendant to observe the witness's demeanor and see/hear each other in real time, while ensuring defense counsel has full opportunity for cross-examination

Legislative Description

Kayla's Act: Protecting Dom. Violence Victims

Public

Last Action

Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

3/26/2025

Committee Referrals

Rules and Operations of the Senate3/26/2025

Full Bill Text

No bill text available