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SB 5295

Updating Washington's sexual assault survivor bill of rights.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Manka Dhingra and 13 co-sponsors

SB 5295 modernizes Washington's sexual assault survivor bill of rights to strengthen victim protections and access to trauma-informed services and legal support.

First reading, referred to Law & Justice.
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Bill Summary · SB 5295

Legislative bill overview

SB 5295 updates Washington state's sexual assault survivor bill of rights, which establishes legal protections and services available to survivors of sexual assault. The bill modernizes existing rights provisions, likely addressing gaps in current law or evolving best practices in victim advocacy and support services. The specific amendments will be clarified as the bill moves through the legislative process.

Why is this important

Sexual assault survivor bills of rights create enforceable legal frameworks ensuring survivors receive medical care, evidence preservation, counseling referrals, and information about legal proceedings—services that can significantly affect physical recovery and access to justice. Updating these provisions ensures survivors have protections that reflect current understanding of trauma-informed care and contemporary support systems. This directly impacts hundreds or thousands of Washington residents annually who experience sexual assault.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of implementation costs: Expanding survivor rights typically requires increased funding for law enforcement training, medical facilities, victim advocates, and counseling services—raising questions about budget allocation
  • Criminal procedure balance: Enhanced survivor protections may intersect with defendants' procedural rights, creating potential constitutional considerations around evidence handling or testimony procedures
  • Definition and coverage gaps: Disagreement may arise over which assault types are covered, how the law addresses non-stranger assaults, and whether digital/online harassment is included

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

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