FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Paige Gehlhausen, Press Secretary
Paige.Gehlhausen@iga.in.gov
317-232-9425
Contact: Karlee Monday, Press Secretary Intern
Karlee.Monday@iga.in.gov
Brown's victim impact statement bill moves to governor's desk
STATEHOUSE (Feb. 25, 2026) — A bill authored by State Sen. Liz Brown (R-Fort Wayne) addressing victim impact statements at sentencing is headed to the governor's desk.
Senate Enrolled Act 9 would require a convicted felon to be present during victim impact statements so all who were impacted by a horrific crime can speak to the offender directly.
“A convicted murderer should not be allowed to opt out of hearing a grieving family's victim impact statement in the courtroom,” Brown said. “A constituent brought this to my attention following a tragic homicide in Fort Wayne where the murderer wasn't present in the courtroom when victim impact statements were given. I authored this bill to ensure victims have the opportunity to explain how their lives are forever affected by the crime directly to the convicted felon. I want to thank my constituents and colleagues for their support on this important legislation.”
SEA 9 would not apply if the felon's presence would pose a safety risk or disruption to the court.
As the 2026 session continues, Brown encourages residents of Senate District 15 to contact her with any questions or comments they may have. Brown can be reached by filling out a "Contact Me" form online at www.IndianaSenateRepublicans.com/Brown or by phone at 800-382-9467.
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State Sen. Liz Brown (R-Fort Wayne) represents Senate District 15,
which includes a portion of Allen County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
