WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congresswoman Lucy McBath (GA-06) with Congressman Tom Tiffany (WI-07) announced the reintroduction of the Justice for Murder Victims Act. This bipartisan legislation would remove the “year-and-a-day” rule, a backwards legal precedent that prohibits a defendant from being held accountable for murder if their victim dies more than a year-and-a-day after the date of their assault. Partner legislation was introduced in the U.S. Senate by Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Jon Ossoff (D-GA). The bill also passed the Senate unanimously last Congress.

"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," said Rep. McBath. "With this bill, families will have tools to preserve the legacy of their lost family member. Justice has no expiration date. I thank my colleagues for their collaboration in this work."

"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.     

Background: 

The “year-and-a-day” rule is a legal principle that bars prosecution for homicide in cases where the victim dies more than 366 days after the attack. However, modern medicine and advances in life support technology have helped more victims of homicide live past the set 366-day mark. Many states have already abolished the antiquated rule due to modern developments. The Justice for Murder Victims Act would amend existing federal law to ensure there’s no maximum prosecutorial time period between the assault and death of a victim. 

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

The text of the Justice for Murder Victims Act is available here.