Proposed rule would require impact statements on justice bills and grants

The proposed rule would require racial and ethnic impact statements for certain criminal justice proposals before floor debate. The rule would cover bills, concurrent resolutions, and amendments proposing the listed changes to criminal law. The requirement would cover proposals that create a public offense, significantly change an offense or its penalty, or change sentencing, parole, or probation procedures. If a statement were missing, a legislator could move during debate to request one. If approved, the Office of Public Safety Planning would prepare it. Statements would include available estimates of changes to the racial and ethnic makeup of the offender population and estimates of affected crime victims, along with the methods and assumptions used. They would be for information only. A statement would need to be attached before floor debate.

State agencies awarding grants would require an impact statement with each grant application. “Minority persons” would include women, people with disabilities, and the racial and ethnic groups listed in the rule. The requirement would apply only to grants for corporations or other legal entities, not individuals. Statements would describe any disproportionate or unique effects on minority people, explain why the policies or programs exist, and show consultation with their representatives when such effects are proposed. The Department of Finance and Administration, working with the Office of Public Safety Planning, would create and distribute a form. Statements would be for information only.