Thursday, July 12, 2007
Contact: Jessica Robinson, 573-751-0290
Blunt Signs Bi-Partisan Legislation Protecting Victims of Sexual Assault, Domestic Abuse
JEFFERSON CITY–Gov. Matt Blunt today visited centers that support victims of sexual assault and domestic violence, and signed bi-partisan legislation to enhance laws protecting women and children harmed at the hands of others. His action significantly strengthens laws governing the rights of domestic violence and sexual assault victims.
"It is a fundamental duty of our state government to protect Missourians from violent criminals," said Governor Blunt. "I am pleased to enact this important, bi-partisan legislation that toughens sentences, helps maintain victims' dignity, and protects safe harbors designed to assist those in danger."
"In 2005, nearly 1,500 women reported being raped and nearly 40,000 reported being victims of domestic violence in Missouri. But experts say only 1 out of 10 sexual assaults are reported and only half of domestic abuse cases are reported," Senate Leader Michael R. Gibbons said. "We must better protect victims so they feel more comfortable and safe to come forward to seek help and justice."
"Domestic violence is not an easy topic to discuss, and I want to commend my colleagues and Gov. Blunt for taking the leadership to address this issue and enact this important legislation," said Rep. Connie Johnson. "By virtue of passing this legislation we are saving lives and helping some of the most vulnerable people at a time when they may not even recognize they need help. It is a courageous act to acknowledge a difficult subject and move towards solutions, such as this bill, that both heighten awareness about domestic violence and move towards addressing the problem."
"The laws of Missouri will now reflect what we know is right and what is required in every community in our state: to ensure that women who have survived sexual and domestic violence will no longer face obstacles that compound the violence committed against them, and that every response affords respectful assistance to survivors and holds offenders accountable," said Colleen Coble, Chief Executive Officer for the Missouri Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence.
"This important legislation speaks to the fundamental right of all citizens to live in a world that is free from relationship violence," said Susan Kidder, Women's Support and Community Services Executive Director. "And, when this right is breeched by sexual or domestic violence, HB 583 ensures that there is strengthened systemic support and protection for victims and their advocates."
"House Bill 583 contains significant protections for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault," said Hope House Director MaryAnne Metheny. "This bill also contains provisions that bring the state of Missouri into compliance with federal mandates and will allow us to continue to provide critical services to victims of domestic violence."
"Bill 583 is a true victory for victims of sexual and domestic violence," said Pat Reiser, President/CEO Family Violence Center Inc. "Many victims now feel that our system has treated them as if they were the criminals. With the passage of this bill, we now recognize their rights and feelings in addition to protecting confidentiality of their cases and testimonials. With these changes, perhaps more victims will be secure enough to come forward for help."
House Bill 583, sponsored by Rep. Connie Johnson, changes several state laws to better protect victims of sexual assault and domestic violence. Under the legislation signed today:
- Sexual assault victims will no longer be forced to pay for a medical exam, commonly called a "rape kit", to gather the assailant's DNA and archive the assault
- Victims cannot be subject to a required polygraph test as a condition for prosecutors or police to investigate alleged crimes
- Domestic Assault in the first degree, which involves attempted murder or serious physical harm, is elevated to a Class A felony on the second offense and is punishable by ten years to life in prison
- Victims' addresses can be removed from publicly accessible state and local records to help keep women safe by making it more difficult for abusers to find victims' home or work addresses
- Children are better protected by provisions that make it easier to sue for psychological injuries caused by sexual exploitation
Governor Blunt has worked diligently to better protect children from sex offenders. From the Amber Alert system to Jessica's Law, he has made Missouri a safer place for our children and families. Important changes to Missouri law, such as those he enacted today, further protect crime victims and enhance public safety in the state.