Legislation aims to protect rape victims

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Proposed legislation that protects the rights of rape victims was introduced by a pair of lawmakers. The legislation would also allow victims to become more involved as their cases proceed through the criminal justice system.

The measure by Sen. Wendy Davis and Rep. Senfronia Thompson would strive to give women more options for rape kit collection and processing, and would ensure that no victim is turned away when they wish to have evidence collected.

• Senate Bill #1191 / House Bill #2560
• Senate Bill #1192 / House Bill #2559

Victims would also be kept up to date on the status of their analysis and would be able to request information on any evidence taken during the investigation.

“By working with the hospitals, we can ensure that rape kit collection is more effective," Davis said. "In providing an avenue to work with law enforcement, survivors of sexual assault will have an active role in seeing that justice is carried out."

Thompson hopes the new legislation impacts those who have been victimized.

“These bills will provide victims of sexual assault an opportunity to really take charge of their lives and move forward,” she said.