Indianapolis, In. — The House Veteran’s Affairs and Public Safety Committee recently supported a bill sponsored by Republican state representative Randy Frye providing transparency throughout the forensic process for sexual assault survivors.
Sexual assault forensic exams are used to collect and preserve physical evidence that can be used in a criminal sexual assault investigation. These rape kits can take up to 15 months to process and there currently is not a system to track their progress, leaving individuals in limbo and stalling investigation efforts.
“When these horrific crimes happen, sexual assault survivors and law enforcement need answers quickly,” Frye said. “This legislation would establish a tracking system for sexual assault forensic exams and give victims the option to receive notifications during the process.”
Frye said this legislation would also require the Victim Services Division of the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute to reimburse hospitals or licensed service providers who administer these forensic medical exams.
Senate Bill 424 now goes to the full House for consideration. To learn more, visit iga.in.gov.
