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HF 458

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 Brooke Boden and 10 co-sponsors

HF 458 establishes a grant program to support nonprofits providing sexual assault forensic exams, enhancing survivor care and training for law enforcement and healthcare professionals.

Committee report approving bill, renumbered as HF 705.
#grants #nonprofitentities #sexualabuse #victims
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Bill Summary · HF 458

Summary of HF 458 - Grant Program for Sexual Assault Forensic Examination Centers

Bill Overview

Bill Number: HF 458
Title: A bill for an act establishing a grant program for a nonprofit organization providing sexual assault forensic examination centers.
Status: Renumbered as HF 705 after committee report approval.
Introduced: February 18, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Grants, nonprofit entities, sexual abuse, victims

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HF 458 is to establish a grant program aimed at supporting nonprofit organizations that provide sexual assault forensic examination services. The bill seeks to enhance the availability and quality of services for sexual assault survivors through funding and training initiatives.

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 Provision and Training:

    • The nonprofit organization must provide or facilitate training for law enforcement, healthcare professionals, and the public on sexual assault services and prevention.
    • A cooperative team approach is mandated to ensure holistic and accessible services for survivors.

  3. Expert Consultation:

    • The organization is required to involve professionals with expertise in various fields (e.g., healthcare, law enforcement, mental health) to address complex cases of sexual assault, including those related to intimate partner violence, human trafficking, and drug-facilitated assault.

  4. Annual Reporting:

    • The organization must submit an annual report to the attorney general detailing the services and training provided throughout the year.

  5. Funding Flexibility:

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

  6. Non-State Agency Status:

    • The contracting nonprofit organization is explicitly stated not to be a state agency, which affects its regulatory obligations under certain state laws.

Impact

The implementation of HF 458 is expected to significantly impact:

  • Survivors of Sexual Assault:
    By improving access to forensic examination services and training, survivors will receive better support and care.

  • Nonprofit Organizations:
    Eligible nonprofits will gain access to funding that can enhance their operational capabilities and service offerings.

  • Law Enforcement and Healthcare Providers:
    Training and resources provided through this grant program will equip these professionals with the necessary skills to better assist sexual assault survivors.

Legislative Timeline

  • February 18, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Public Safety Committee.
  • February 19, 2025: Subcommittee formed and meeting held.
  • February 24, 2025: Subcommittee recommends passage.
  • February 26, 2025: Committee report recommending passage; committee vote results: 15 Yeas, 7 Nays, 1 Excused.
  • February 28, 2025: Committee report approving bill; bill renumbered as HF 705.

This summary provides an overview of HF 458, highlighting its intent, provisions, and potential impact on the community and stakeholders involved in addressing sexual assault.

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

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