Modifies provisions relating to the Crime Victims' Compensation Fund

SB 981 - This act modifies the requirements for filing a claim for compensation under the Crime Victims' Compensation Fund. Currently, the claim shall be filed no later than two years after the occurrence or the discovery of the crime eligible for compensation. This act provide that a claim shall be filed no later than two years after the later of: (1) The occurrence of the crime; (2) The discovery of the crime; (3) The filing of criminal charges; or (4) The conviction of the crime. This act provides that certain sexual offenses may be filed at any time. Currently, the amount of compensation excludes pain and suffering. This act provides that the compensation shall exclude pain and suffering for those claimants other than the victim of a crime. Furthermore, the surcharge for the Crime Victims' Compensation Fund shall be $10, instead of $7.50, in each court proceeding filed in all criminal cases and in juvenile court delinquency proceedings. Additionally, this act modifies payments upon a plea or finding of guilt for certain crimes as follows: (1) Class A or B felony: $100 from $68 (2) Class C, D, or E felony: $80 from $46 (3) Misdemeanors unless exempted: $40 from $10. TRISTAN BENSON, JR.