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Senate of Pennsylvania
Session of 2017 - 2018 Regular Session

MEMORANDUM

Posted:	June 6, 2018 01:21 PM
From:	Senator Wayne Langerholc, Jr.
To:	All Senate members
Subject:	Addressing the Untested Rape Kit Backlog

In the near future, I plan on introducing legislation to address the backlog of untested rape kits. The Sexual Assault Testing and Evidence Collection Act has made progress towards addressing the backlog; however, this Act needs supplemented to further address the situation. My legislation would assist the current law and dramatically help reduce the backlog. Accordingly, it will: Establish a commission of local and state agencies to annually review funding needs and improve communications Establish a hotline for hospitals to call if a rape kit is not picked up within 72 hours; and Clarify ambiguous language. We possess the scientific means to collect and test evidence that will aid in the apprehension of these offenders. Having a backlog for such a serious crime is unacceptable. Please join me in cosponsoring this legislation to help protect our constituents, aid law enforcement; and most notably, aid the victims of crime.

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