Senate Bill 224 aims to enhance the rights of sexual assault victims in Wisconsin by amending existing laws and creating new provisions related to the handling of sexual assault kits. The bill specifies that victims who provide a sexual assault kit will have the right to have their kit tested within established statutory timelines. Additionally, victims can request information regarding the location, testing date, and results of the kit, as well as whether DNA analysis has been performed and if any profiles have been matched. The bill also ensures that victims are informed about the estimated destruction date of their kit and any changes in the status of their case.

To implement these changes, the bill amends section 165.776 (1) (d) to clarify the definition of a sexual assault kit, aligning it with the definition provided in section 165.775 (1) (e). Furthermore, it creates a new section, 950.04 (1v) (dm), which outlines the specific rights of victims regarding their sexual assault kits. This legislation seeks to provide greater transparency and support for victims throughout the criminal justice process, ensuring they are treated with dignity and respect.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 165.776(1)(d), 165.776