The bill amends Louisiana law to enhance the rights and protections for survivors of sexual assault, replacing the term "victims" with "survivors" to promote empowering language. It establishes specific procedures for hospitals and healthcare providers when treating sexual assault survivors, ensuring that they are not required to report the incident to law enforcement to receive medical care. The bill also mandates immediate notification of appropriate authorities if the survivor is under eighteen or unable to make decisions. A sexual assault survivor bill of rights is introduced, guaranteeing timely and private medical examinations, access to advocates, and necessary medical treatments without undue delay.

Additionally, the legislation ensures that survivors will not be billed directly for forensic medical examinations, with costs covered by the Crime Victim Reparations Board. It outlines the responsibilities of healthcare providers regarding evidence collection and preservation, requiring that unreported sexual assault collection kits be securely stored for at least twenty years. The bill also includes new rights for survivors, such as receiving a copy of their forensic medical examination report at no cost, being informed about the status of their collection kit, and having an advocate present during examinations. Furthermore, it prohibits the use of polygraph tests in investigations and protects survivors' DNA from being used against them, aiming to create a supportive environment for survivors navigating the legal process.

Statutes affected:
SB124 Original: 40:1(A)(1)
SB124 Engrossed:
SB124 Enrolled:
SB124 Act 669: