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Bill

Bill

S 429

STRATEGIC Minerals Act

119th Congress Introduced by Chris Coons and 3 co-sponsors

Bill S 429 empowers the state inspector general to investigate sexual assault complaints in correctional facilities, enhancing inmate safety and accountability.

Introduced in Senate
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Bill Summary · S 429

Summary of Bill S 429

Bill Number: S 429
Title: Authorizes the state inspector general to receive and investigate complaints of sexual assault in correctional facilities
Status: Referred to Governmental Operations
Introduced: January 08, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 429 aims to enhance the oversight and accountability of correctional facilities by empowering the state inspector general to receive and investigate complaints related to sexual assault within these institutions. The bill seeks to address the critical issue of sexual violence in correctional settings, ensuring that victims have a formal channel to report incidents and that such complaints are thoroughly investigated.

Key Provisions

  • Authority of the Inspector General: The bill grants the state inspector general the authority to:

    • Receive complaints of sexual assault from individuals in correctional facilities.
    • Conduct investigations into these complaints to ensure accountability and transparency.
  • Reporting Mechanism: Establishes a clear process for inmates to report sexual assault incidents, thereby promoting a safer environment within correctional facilities.

  • Investigation Protocols: The bill outlines the procedures the inspector general must follow when investigating complaints, ensuring that investigations are conducted fairly and thoroughly.

Impact

  • Affected Parties:

    • Inmates: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are individuals incarcerated in correctional facilities who may be victims of sexual assault. The bill aims to provide them with a safer environment and a reliable mechanism for reporting abuse.
    • Correctional Facilities: Facilities will be subject to increased scrutiny and oversight, which may lead to changes in policies and practices regarding the handling of sexual assault allegations.
  • Accountability Measures: By allowing an independent body to investigate these complaints, the bill aims to hold correctional facilities accountable for the safety and well-being of their inmates.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: January 08, 2025
  • Referred to Crime Victims, Crime and Correction: January 08, 2025
  • 1st Report Calendar: February 04, 2025
  • 2nd Report Calendar: February 05, 2025
  • Advanced to Third Reading: February 10, 2025
  • Passed Senate: May 13, 2025
  • Delivered to Assembly: May 13, 2025
  • Referred to Governmental Operations: May 13, 2025

Related Bills

  • S 6975: A related bill from the prior session that may address similar issues.
  • A 7081: A companion bill in the Assembly that aligns with the objectives of S 429.

This summary provides an overview of Bill S 429, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and potential impact on correctional facilities and inmates. The bill represents a significant step towards improving the handling of sexual assault complaints in the correctional system.

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

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