If *this* ::waves wildly from Maine to Hawaii with some extra nods towards the part of the United States commonly referred to as Puerto Rico:: hadn't already convinced you that it's time to show up for every single election, perhaps a little attention to an important issue will? Maybe?

Marsy's Law. It's on the ballot in Pennsylvania next week.

I know you've heard the radio commercials and probably, if you're like me, got frustrated quickly about the clear play to manipulate your emotions. That's a valid response to some of the shenanigans in those commercials. AND YET. There is some truth to the message - currently, in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, victims of violent crimes aren't given some very basic considerations. Marsy's Law would provide crime victims with 15 rights, including the right to:

• be treated with fairness and respect for the victim's safety, dignity, and privacy;
• proceedings free from unreasonable delay and a prompt and final conclusion of the case;
• have the safety of the victim and victim's family considered when setting the bail amount and release conditions for the accused;
• reasonable and timely notice of public proceedings involving the criminal conduct;
• be present at public proceedings involving the criminal conduct;
• be heard at proceedings where a right of the victim is implicated, including release, sentencing, and parole proceedings;
• receive notice of any pretrial disposition of the case, with the exception of grand jury proceedings;
• provide information to be considered before the parole of the offender;
• reasonable protection from the accused and those acting on the behalf of the accused;
• reasonable notice of the release or escape of the accused;
• refuse an interview, deposition or other discovery request made by the accused;
• full and timely restitution from the person or entity convicted;
• the prompt return of property when no longer needed as evidence;
• confer with the government's attorney; and
• be informed of all rights granted by the amendment.