The right thing to do
The legislation (2024-S 2767A, 2024-H 7449A), which now goes to the governor, would enable victims of sexual assault to submit a medical forensic exam performed within 15 days of the assault by a licensed health care provider in lieu of a police report in order to establish eligibility for funds from the Crime Victim Compensation Program.
The program
reimburses victims for expenses resulting from crimes, such as medical and
counseling costs, cleaning, relocation, loss of earnings, funeral expenses and
more.
Representative McEntee (D-Dist. 33, South Kingstown, Narragansett) and Senator Lauria (D-Dist. 32, Barrington, Bristol, East Providence) submitted the legislation on behalf of General Treasurer James A. Diossa, whose office administers the Crime Victim Compensation Program.
Under current law, crime victims must file a
police report in order to qualify for funds through the program. But according
to the Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network, 70% of
sexual assaults go unreported,
meaning the vast majority of sexual assault victims are unable to receive
assistance through the fund.
“I have taken care of many victims of sexual
assault,” said Senator Lauria, who works as a nurse practitioner. “There are
many reasons that victims choose not to press charges. That does not make them
any less a victim. They endure so much, including expenses that the Crime
Victim Compensation Fund is meant to cover. This bill gives them another avenue
to qualify for help through the fund.”
Said Representative McEntee, “Often when a
victim of sexual assault chooses not to report the assault to the police, it is
because doing so is more than they can bear. That’s a victim who very much
needs help. The victim’s compensation fund should absolutely be able to provide
the same assistance to them as it would to any other victim of sexual assault.”
The sponsors noted that a medial forensic exam
conducted following sexual assault is one of the most invasive medical exams
that exist, and that no one would undergo one without need. The expense of that
exam would be something the Crime Victim Compensation Program would cover.
Under another law enacted by the General Assembly
this year, the fund can now provide up to $1,000 in
financial assistance to help victims improve security in their homes. That bill
(2024-H 7747B, 2024-S 2777A)
sponsored by Rep. Justine A. Caldwell (D-Dist. 30, East Greenwich, West
Greenwich) and Sen. Matthew L. LaMountain (D-Dist. 30, Warwick) on Treasurer
Diossa’s behalf, could be of particular help to the same victims who would be
helped by this bill, since fear of retaliation by the perpetrator is a common
reason that victims decline to pursue criminal charges.
If you or a loved one has been a victim of
violent crime in Rhode Island and you need assistance, the Crime Victim
Compensation Program may be able to help. More information about the program
can be found at RICVCP.com or by
calling (401) 462-7655.