This bill proposes the establishment of a Sexual Assault Kit Evidence Tracking System (System) within the Department of Public Safety (DPS) to enhance the tracking and management of sexual assault kits (SAKs). The new provisions require that medical providers, law enforcement agencies, and accredited crime laboratories submit information regarding SAKs into the System. The System will track the location and status of each SAK, including its collection, storage, analysis, and destruction. Additionally, it will allow various entities involved in the chain of custody, as well as victims, to update and receive notifications about the status of their SAKs, including advance notice of destruction.

The bill also stipulates that records entered into the System are confidential, accessible only to the victim and authorized personnel involved in the management of SAK evidence. It defines key terms such as "law enforcement agency" and "public accredited crime laboratory" in alignment with existing statutes. Overall, the bill aims to improve transparency and accountability in the handling of sexual assault evidence, thereby supporting victims and enhancing the investigative process.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 41-1735
House Engrossed Version: 41-1735
Senate Engrossed Version: 41-1735
Chaptered Version: 41-1735