Bills Designed to Streamline and Expedite Processing of Rape Kits Advance

The Assembly Public Safety and Preparedness Committee on Monday advanced legislation designed to reduce the number of untested sexual assault forensic evidence (SAFE) kits, more commonly known as rape kits, statewide. This would expedite the investigation of rape cases, bringing justice and closure for victims.

Bill A908, sponsored by Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson , would direct the New Jersey Attorney General to establish a rape kit tracking system. Bill A3753, sponsored by Assemblywoman Carol Murphy and Annette Quijano , would require a more timely submission and analysis process for rape kits in New Jersey.?

If a victim of sexual assault consents to a physical examination, a rape kit is created to collect physical evidence left on a victim’s body after the assault. Once a kit is compiled, it is sent to law enforcement to be tested for DNA, which can then be used to prosecute the attacker.

Bill A908 would establish a framework for tracking the submission of sexual assault-related evidence throughout the chain of custody. The legislation would task the Attorney General with creating guidelines or a directive establishing an internet-based system that would allow victims, law enforcement officers, healthcare facility or laboratory employees, and others to track sexual assault evidence through the chain of custody from the initial collection to its testing and final disposition.

“Establishing a tracking system for sexual assault forensic evidence kits is of the utmost importance, ensuring a level of transparency and healing exists within our communities,” said Assemblywoman Reynolds-Jackson (D-Hunterdon, Mercer). “Through A908 we aim to empower victims by providing them with the ability to track the progress of their evidence, ensuring their voice is heard and their rights are protected.”

Bill A3753, sponsored by Assemblywomen Carol Murphy and Annette Quijano, would mandate a more timely submission and analysis process for rape kits in New Jersey. The bill, referred to as the “Sexual Assault Evidence Submission Act,” would require municipal, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to submit all relevant forensic laboratory evidence collected in a sexual assault investigation within 10 business days of the crime. This legislation further mandates that laboratories must analyze this evidence within six months of when it is received, assuming sufficient staffing and resources are available.

“The ‘Sexual Assault Evidence Submission Act’ ensures swift justice by requiring timely submissions and analysis of rape kits,” said Assemblywoman Murphy (D-Burlington). “A3753 not only provides closure but streamlines the investigative process, fostering greater trust and efficiency in our justice system.”

“Today marks a significant milestone in our commitment to protecting the rights of survivors, ensuring that sexual assault-related evidence is not only thoroughly examined but also treated with the utmost respect and care,” said Assemblywoman Quijano (D-Union). “The advancement of A3753 is a crucial step towards ensuring a more timely investigation of sexual assault cases in New Jersey and bringing justice and closure for victims.”