The proposed bill would establish a Sexual Assault Kit Evidence Tracking System within the Department of Public Safety (DPS) to enhance the tracking and management of sexual assault kits (SAKs). This system would require medical providers, law enforcement agencies, and accredited crime laboratories to submit information regarding the collection, storage, analysis, and destruction of SAKs. The bill mandates that the system must allow various entities, including healthcare facilities and victims, to update and track the status of SAKs, ensuring victims can receive anonymous updates and advance notifications regarding the destruction of their kits.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that records entered into the tracking system are confidential, accessible only to the victim or authorized personnel involved in the management of the SAK evidence. It also clarifies definitions for "law enforcement agency" and "public accredited crime laboratory" as per existing statutes. Overall, the bill aims to improve transparency and accountability in the handling of sexual assault evidence, thereby supporting victims' rights 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