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SF 343

A bill for an act establishing a grant program for a nonprofit organization providing sexual assault forensic examination centers.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Cherielynn Westrich

Bill SF 343 establishes a grant program for nonprofits providing sexual assault forensic exams, enhancing survivor support and training for law enforcement and legal professionals.

Subcommittee recommends passage.
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Bill Summary · SF 343

Summary of Bill SF 343

Bill Number: SF 343
Title: A bill for an act establishing a grant program for a nonprofit organization providing sexual assault forensic examination centers.
Status: Subcommittee recommends passage.
Introduced: February 18, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject Areas: Attorney General, Contracts, Felonies, Grants, Law Enforcement Officers, Nonprofit Entities, Sexual Abuse, Victims

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of Bill SF 343 is to establish a grant program aimed at supporting nonprofit organizations that provide sexual assault forensic examination services. This initiative seeks to enhance the availability and quality of services for sexual assault survivors, ensuring they receive comprehensive care and support throughout the examination and reporting process.

Key Provisions

The bill outlines several key provisions, including:

  1. Grant Program Establishment:

    • Creation of a grant program specifically for nonprofit organizations that operate sexual assault forensic examination centers.

  2. Service Delivery:

    • The nonprofit organizations receiving grants will be required to:
      • Provide or facilitate training for law enforcement officers and prosecuting attorneys on sexual assault services.
      • Offer public training on sexual assault services and prevention.
      • Deliver holistic and accessible services to sexual assault survivors, emphasizing their best interests.

  3. Collaborative Approach:

    • The bill encourages a cooperative team approach involving various professionals, including healthcare providers, mental health professionals, social workers, and legal advocates, to address complex cases of sexual assault.

  4. Annual Reporting:

    • Grant recipients must submit an annual report to the Attorney General detailing the services and training provided.

  5. Funding Flexibility:

    • The bill allows the nonprofit organizations to seek additional funding or reimbursement from other sources, including charging for training attendance, while also providing general funding for operational expenditures.

  6. Non-State Agency Status:

    • The contracting nonprofit organization will not be classified as a state agency under specific chapters of state law, allowing for greater operational flexibility.

Impact

The implementation of SF 343 is expected to have a significant impact on:

  • Victims of Sexual Assault: By improving access to forensic examination services and support, survivors will benefit from more comprehensive care and resources.
  • Law Enforcement and Legal Professionals: Enhanced training and resources will better equip these professionals to handle sexual assault cases effectively.
  • Nonprofit Organizations: The establishment of a grant program will provide essential funding to nonprofits dedicated to serving sexual assault survivors.

Legislative Timeline

  • February 18, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Judiciary Committee.
  • February 20, 2025: Subcommittee formed, consisting of members Westrich, Petersen, and Shipley.
  • February 25, 2025: Subcommittee meeting scheduled to discuss the bill.
  • March 3, 2025: Subcommittee recommends passage of the bill.

This summary provides an overview of Bill SF 343, highlighting its intent, key provisions, and potential impact on victims of sexual assault and the organizations that support them.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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