This bill aims to enhance the support and protection of crime victims and witnesses, particularly in cases of sexual assault and domestic violence. It introduces provisions for courts to appoint standby counsel to conduct examinations of victim witnesses on behalf of pro se defendants, thereby minimizing the trauma experienced by victims during legal proceedings. The bill also expands the definition of sexual violence to include female genital mutilation and emphasizes the need for trauma-informed, culturally sensitive policies. Additionally, it clarifies the rights of sexual violence survivors, including access to medical forensic examinations and the right to consult with advocates throughout the legal process, while allowing minors aged 13 and older to consent to forensic examinations in domestic violence cases involving nonfatal strangulation.

Furthermore, the legislation establishes a SAFE advisory group within the attorney general's office, which will consist of representatives from law enforcement, prosecuting attorneys, community advocates, and survivors of sexual violence. The bill increases the number of survivor representatives from two to three and adds a member representing children's advocacy centers. The advisory group is tasked with researching best practices for victim support, monitoring the distribution of sexual assault evidence collection kits, and recommending institutional reforms to improve the experiences of survivors in the criminal justice system. The group is required to meet at least twice a year and report its findings to the legislature and the governor annually, with the section establishing the advisory group set to expire on July 1, 2028.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 70.125.030, 70.125.110, 43.10.801
Substitute bill: 70.125.030, 70.125.110, 43.10.801
Second substitute: 70.125.030, 70.125.110, 43.10.801