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Homicide Victims' Families' Rights: Cold Case Review System

This new law allows families of cold case murder victims to request a review of case files by law enforcement agencies. The aim is to uncover new leads or identify perpetrators, offering hope for justice to the victims' loved ones.
Key points
Families of victims can request a re-examination of cold case murder files for incidents occurring on or after January 1, 1970.
Agencies must review files within 6 months and conduct a full reinvestigation if new, promising leads emerge.
The act grants families the right to information and consultation with agencies during the review and reinvestigation process.
Complaint procedures and employee training are established to ensure compliance with the new regulations.
article Official text account_balance Process page
VOTING RESULTS
2022-03-29
95%
For 406
Against 20
Abstain 0
Full voting results open_in_new
Became Law
Citizen Poll
No votes cast
Additional Information
Print number: 117_HR_3359
Sponsor: Rep. Swalwell, Eric [D-CA-15]
Process start date: 2021-05-19
Voting date: 2022-03-29
Meeting no: 2
Voting no: 88
Lustra uses Artificial Intelligence. Verify details in source documents.
Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-05-20
Source data: api.congress.gov
AI work logs for this document launch

OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Homicide Victims' Families' Rights Act of 2021

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 117_HR_3359.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2021-05-19.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Families of victims can request a re-examination of cold case murder files for incidents occurring on or after January 1, 1970.
  • Agencies must review files within 6 months and conduct a full reinvestigation if new, promising leads emerge.
  • The act grants families the right to information and consultation with agencies during the review and reinvestigation process.
  • Complaint procedures and employee training are established to ensure compliance with the new regulations.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Became Law.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Where is the official voting record?

The official roll call vote is recorded at: voting record

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Swalwell, Eric [D-CA-15].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Became Public Law No: 117-164.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-27.

CATEGORIES

Courts and Law Family Security