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Bill

A 5203

Prohibits court from requiring victim of sexual offense to submit to certain examinations.

2026-2027 Regular Session

Prohibits courts from forcing sexual offense victims to undergo gynecological or certain physical exams, and prevents refusal from barring other admissible evidence.

Introduced, Referred to Assembly Judiciary Committee
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Bill Summary · A 5203

Summary of Assembly Bill A-5203 (NJ, 222nd Legislature)

Purpose and intent

  • This bill prohibits courts from ordering or requiring victims of certain sexual offenses to undergo specific intimate examinations.
  • It aims to protect victims from being compelled to submit to gynecological examinations or physical examinations of areas such as the breasts, buttocks, anus, or other sexual organs during related prosecutions or civil actions.

Key provisions

  • In prosecutions or civil actions arising from:
    • Aggravated sexual assault
    • Sexual assault
    • Aggravated criminal sexual contact
    • Criminal sexual contact
    • Human trafficking involving sexual activity
  • The court may not order or require the victim to submit to:
    • A gynecological examination
    • A physical examination of the breasts, buttocks, anus, or any part of the sexual organs
  • If a victim refuses such an examination, that refusal cannot be used to exclude evidence obtained from other relevant examinations of the victim. In other words, the absence of consent to the specified examinations cannot be the basis to suppress other admissible evidence related to the victim.

Affected parties and scope

  • Victims of the specified offenses (rape, sexual assault, sexual contact offenses, and related human trafficking cases) who are involved in criminal prosecutions or civil damages actions.
  • Courts and legal practitioners handling relevant cases in New Jersey.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Effective date: Immediate upon enactment.
  • The bill was introduced June 4, 2026, and referred to the Assembly Judiciary Committee.

Potential impact

  • Reduces potential pressure or coercion on victims to submit to invasive examinations during legal proceedings.
  • Clarifies evidentiary standards by ensuring that a victim’s refusal to undergo the specified examinations does not automatically bar other relevant evidence.
  • May affect how prosecutors gather medical or examination-related evidence and how defense teams approach such examinations and evidentiary rulings.
  • Could enhance survivor protections and consent considerations in court proceedings involving sexual offenses and related human trafficking cases.

Notes

  • The bill is currently in the introductory stage and would be subject to committee review, potential amendments, and floor votes before becoming law.

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

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