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SB 224

Relating to: the rights of sexual assault crime victims.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by André Jacque

SB 224 strengthens Wisconsin sexual assault victim rights by expanding notification requirements, evidence handling protections, and access to case information throughout prosecution.

Received from Senate
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 224

Legislative bill overview

SB 224 expands legal protections and procedural rights for sexual assault crime victims in Wisconsin. The bill addresses victim notification, evidence handling, and access to support services throughout the criminal justice process. Specific provisions include amendments regarding victim communication preferences and evidence preservation protocols.

Why is this important

Sexual assault victims often report feeling excluded from or uninformed about their cases, which can compound trauma. Strengthening victim rights ensures survivors have agency in legal proceedings, know what to expect, and receive timely information—factors that research shows improve victim recovery outcomes and case cooperation. These protections also standardize practices across Wisconsin counties that may currently handle victim services inconsistently.

Potential points of contention

  • Prosecution resources: Expanding notification and communication requirements could increase administrative burden on district attorneys' offices, particularly in rural counties with limited staffing
  • Defendant privacy concerns: Enhanced victim access to case information may create tension with discovery rules and defendant rights to fair trial protections
  • Implementation costs: Establishing standardized evidence preservation systems and victim notification infrastructure requires funding that may challenge state or county budgets

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

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