This evening, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) applauded House passage of legislation to establish basic rights for survivors of sexual assault. The Survivors' Bill of Rights Act of 2016, cosponsored by Kuster, would codify rights for sexual assault survivors, including the right to a medical forensic examination without charge. The legislation would also protect evidence, such as rape-kits, from being destroyed without notice or before the statute of limitation on a crime has lapsed.  

“Survivors of sexual assault face far too many obstacles without also having to worry about whether they will be supported by the criminal justice system,” said Congresswoman Kuster. “The Survivors' Bill of Rights Act is a significant step toward ensuring that survivors are able to pursue justice without unnecessary burdens hindering their efforts. I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues to change the culture around sexual assault so that survivors receive the support and justice they deserve.”

Congresswoman Kuster has long been a champion for victims and survivors of sexual or domestic violence. She joined with 17 other Members of Congress to read on the House floor Emily Doe’s open letter describing her attack and ensuing trial – which marked the first time a victim’s statement has been read in full in the House chambers. Congresswoman Kuster and her colleagues took this action a step further by describing their own personal experiences – or those of their loved ones – involving sexual assault to demonstrate that Emily Doe is not alone, and that steps must be taken to stop sexual violence in our society.