Senate Bill 413 aims to enhance protections for victims of sexual assault and those who assist them by providing immunity from prosecution for certain controlled substance and alcohol violations. The bill expands current immunity provisions to include individuals who aid sexual assault victims, allowing them to avoid prosecution for drug-related offenses if they sought emergency assistance or reported the assault. Additionally, it extends the statute of limitations for prosecuting second-degree sexual assault from 10 years to 20 years and ensures that underage individuals who are victims or bystanders are not cited for alcohol violations if they report the crime or seek help.
The bill also modifies tenant rights regarding termination of residency in cases of sexual assault. It removes the requirement that a tenant must face an imminent threat of serious physical harm to vacate their residence without liability for rent, provided they present a certified copy of an injunction or criminal complaint related to the assault. This legislation aims to create a safer environment for victims and encourage reporting of sexual assaults by reducing the fear of legal repercussions for those who assist victims or are victims themselves.
Statutes affected: Bill Text: 125.07(5)(b), 125.07, 125.07(5)(c), 704.16(1)(b)3, 704.16, 939.74(2)(ar), 939.74