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HB 626

Criminal procedure; extend retention period of evidence of sexual assault when victim elects not to immediately report assault

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Matt Dubnik and 4 co-sponsors

House Bill 626 extends evidence retention for sexual assault cases from 12 months to 30 years, aiding victims who delay reporting and ensuring crucial evidence remains available.

House Postponed
#criminalprocedure #evidence
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 626

Summary of House Bill 626: "Stephanie Colquitt-Shurman Act of 2025"

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 626, also known as the "Stephanie Colquitt-Shurman Act of 2025," aims to amend the preservation period for evidence related to sexual assault cases in Georgia. The bill specifically addresses situations where a victim chooses not to report the assault immediately, ensuring that critical evidence is retained for a longer duration to support potential future investigations and prosecutions.

Key Provisions

  • Retention Period Extension: The bill proposes to extend the retention period for physical evidence collected from sexual assault victims who do not report the incident to law enforcement at the time of evidence collection.

    • Current Law: Evidence must be retained for a minimum of 12 months.
    • Proposed Change: The retention period would be extended to 30 years from the date of evidence collection.

  • Evidence Types: The bill specifies that the evidence to be retained includes any physical evidence containing biological material, such as stains, fluids, or hair samples that may relate to the identity of the alleged perpetrator.

  • Repeal of Conflicting Laws: The bill includes a provision to repeal any laws that conflict with this new retention requirement.

Affected Parties

  • Victims of Sexual Assault: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are victims who may choose not to report their assault immediately. The extended retention period provides them with the option to come forward later without the fear of losing crucial evidence.

  • Law Enforcement Agencies: Agencies responsible for collecting and preserving evidence will need to adjust their procedures to comply with the new retention timeline.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: February 26, 2025
  • House First Readers: February 27, 2025
  • House Second Readers: February 28, 2025
  • House Committee Favorably Reported By Substitute: March 4, 2025
  • House Withdrawn, Recommitted: April 4, 2025

Conclusion

House Bill 626 seeks to enhance the legal framework surrounding the preservation of evidence in sexual assault cases, particularly for victims who may need more time before deciding to report the crime. By extending the evidence retention period to 30 years, the bill aims to provide victims with greater support and options in their pursuit of justice.

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

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