Central Wisconsin News

Congressman Tom Tiffany from Wisconsin and Congresswoman Lucy McBath from Georgia have announced the reintroduction of the Justice for Murder Victims Act. This bipartisan effort aims to eliminate the "year-and-a-day" rule, a legal precedent dating back to the 13th century that prevents prosecution for murder if the victim dies more than a year and a day after their assault. Identical legislation has been introduced in the U.S. Senate by Senators Chuck Grassley of Iowa and Jon Ossoff of Georgia, with unanimous passage in the Senate during the last Congress.

"Justice should not come with an expiration date. This bipartisan, bicameral legislation will provide justice for murder victims by doing away with the ‘year-and-a-day’ loophole, ensuring that murderers can be prosecuted no matter how much time has passed," said Rep. Tiffany.

Rep. McBath added, "I was once a family member in the courtroom reeling after the murder of my son. I understand the importance of minimizing barriers in the fight for justice." She emphasized that "with this bill, families will have tools to preserve the legacy of their lost family member. Justice has no expiration date."

The "year-and-a-day" rule traditionally barred homicide prosecution if death occurred beyond 366 days post-assault. Advances in medicine and life support now allow many victims to survive past this timeframe, leading many states to abolish this outdated rule. The proposed act would amend federal law to remove any maximum prosecutorial period between assault and death.

The Justice for Murder Victims Act is backed by several organizations including the National District Attorney’s Association, Iowa County Attorney’s Association, National Organization of Parents of Murdered Children, Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association, Major County Sheriffs of America, Murder Accountability Project, Association of Prosecuting Attorneys, and Major Cities Chiefs Association.