HB 14

Abstract

Amends the Sexual Assault Evidence Submission Act. Provides that the Department of State Police shall create and operate a statewide sexual assault evidence kit tracking system. Provides that on and after the effective date of the amendatory Act, each sexual assault evidence kit created shall have a tracking mechanism attached to the kit for input into the statewide sexual assault evidence kit tracking system. Provides that every sexual assault evidence kit shall have the tracking mechanism attached to the kit for input into the statewide sexual assault evidence kit tracking system on or before January 1, 2020. Provides that the statewide sexual assault evidence kit tracking system shall: (1) track the location and status of sexual assault evidence kits throughout the criminal justice process, including the initial collection in examinations performed at medical facilities, receipt at local law enforcement agencies, and receipt and analysis at forensic laboratories; (2) allow medical facilities performing sexual assault forensic examinations, law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, State and local crime laboratories, and other entities who have physical custody of sexual assault evidence kits to update and track the status and location of sexual assault evidence kits; (3) allow victims of sexual assault to anonymously track and receive updates regarding the status of their sexual assault evidence kits; and (4) use technology to allow continuous access for appropriate personnel. Effective July 1, 2019.