Richmond, Va. - Governor Terry McAuliffe signed Senate Bill 291 and House Bill 1160, which will establish procedures for handling evidence kits in sexual assaults.
The legislation is expected to double the number of tests performed each year and includes a process for survivors to request information on the status and results of the tests.
The Governor also signed two additional measures affirming his support for the health and safety of Virginia’s women.
Senate Bill 248 enables a minor to consent to an evidence recovery examination over the objections of a parent or guardian, a critical option in cases where the adult may be the perpetrator.
House Bill 1102 facilitates collaboration between state agencies and campus law enforcement in the development of trauma-informed training to ensure that survivors of sexual assault receive the support and evidence-based treatment they need.
