WeVote

Bill

Bill

SF 192

A bill for an act relating to authorized uses of moneys in the victim compensation fund.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Liz Bennett and 11 co-sponsors

SF 192 enhances support for sexual assault victims by allowing the compensation fund to cover costs for emergency contraception and abortion, easing their financial burden.

Subcommittee: Schultz, Blake, and Bousselot.
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SF 192

Summary of SF 192 - Victim Compensation Fund Amendments

Bill Number: SF 192
Introduced On: February 3, 2025
Current Status: Subcommittee: Schultz, Blake, and Bousselot
Classification: Bill
Subject Areas: Abortions, Attorney General, Contraception, Emergency Management, Justice System Appropriations, Medical Care, Money, Salaries and Wages, Victims

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of SF 192 is to amend the existing provisions regarding the use of funds from the victim compensation fund. This bill aims to enhance the support available to victims of sexual assault by explicitly allowing the fund to cover costs associated with emergency contraception and other health care treatments, including abortion.

Key Provisions

  1. Amendment to Section 915.41:

    • The bill modifies subsection 1 to specify that the costs of medical examinations for victims, as well as the provision or reimbursement for emergency contraception and other health care treatments (including abortion), will be covered by the victim compensation fund.
  2. Establishment of the Victim Compensation Fund:

    • Section 915.94 is amended to clarify that the victim compensation fund is a separate entity within the state treasury, managed by the Department of Justice. The fund is dedicated to supporting victims as outlined in Section 915.41 and related statutes.
  3. New Funding Uses:

    • A new paragraph is added to Section 915.94, allowing the fund to be used for the provision or reimbursement of victims of sexual assault for emergency contraception and other health care treatments, including abortion.

Impact

  • Victims of Sexual Assault: The bill directly benefits victims by ensuring they have access to necessary medical care without the burden of cost, particularly in the aftermath of sexual assault.
  • Department of Justice: The bill empowers the Department of Justice to administer these funds and expand the scope of support available to victims, thereby enhancing the overall response to sexual violence in the state.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Actions:
    • The bill was introduced and referred to the Judiciary Committee on February 3, 2025.
    • A subcommittee consisting of members Schultz, Blake, and Bousselot was formed to review the bill on February 4, 2025.

This summary provides an overview of SF 192, highlighting its intent to improve the support system for victims of sexual assault through the victim compensation fund. The amendments proposed in this bill reflect a commitment to addressing the health care needs of victims in a comprehensive manner.

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

Sign in to ask a question.