Law changes for criminals, sex offenders, and prisoner transfers

This approved law makes changes to how the justice system handles certain crimes. First, it increases the maximum prison time for sexually exploiting a person with a disability from five to ten years. It also adds a new rule that courts must ask prosecutors if they consulted with victims before issuing orders that protect the victim's identity. The law also allows victims, witnesses, and justice system workers to request orders protecting their identity, even if a broader publication ban isn't in place. Finally, it changes the definition of "designated offence" in the Sex Offender Information Registration Act, creating "primary offences" and "secondary offences". These changes affect people convicted of certain crimes, especially those involving sexual offenses or exploitation. Victims and witnesses in these cases are also affected, as the law provides them with more options for protecting their identity. Justice system workers involved in these cases also get more protection. This law matters because it aims to better protect vulnerable people, like those with disabilities and victims of crime. It also gives more power to victims and witnesses in the justice system, allowing them to have a say in how their information is shared. By updating the rules for sex offenders and international offender transfers, the law tries to make the justice system fairer and more effective.