Share:
House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2023 - 2024
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | January 31, 2024 04:17 PM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Brian Munroe and Rep. Tim Brennan, Rep. Lisa A. Borowski |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Rape Kit Tracking System |
| Although Pennsylvania has come far in ending the rape kit backlog, with only 186 kits awaiting testing at the end of 2021, there is still more that can be done to ensure all entities involved in the delicate testing of sexual assault evidence are held accountable for reporting that evidence in a timely manner. At least 33 states, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia have committed to enacting rape kit tracking systems, providing survivors of sexual assault with increased transparency and accountability from the organizations that are expected to protect and help them in the most traumatic of situations. Our legislation aims to add us to this ever-growing list by implementing a rape kit tracking system in Pennsylvania that would require the electronic tracking of all sexual assault evidence collection kits. This online database would be accessible for survivors and certain authorized users and would include a publicly accessible website with information and services to assist survivors who may need legal, behavioral, or medical help. Finally, entities involved in collecting sexual assault evidence, including medical providers and law enforcement agencies, would be required to participate in the tracking system. There is no reason to delay the administration of this nationally-used system any longer. As elected officials, we must recognize the need for rape kit reform in Pennsylvania. Please join us in co-sponsoring this important legislation to enact a comprehensive, survivor-centered rape kit tracking system. |
Introduced as HB2088