Content warning: This article contains mentions of sexual assault.
U.S. Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-Evanston) introduced legislation Wednesday that would expand training related to sexual assault and domestic violence for law enforcement personnel and emergency medical technicians.
The bill, titled ‘Anna’s Law,’ comes in recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Numerous Illinois social service organizations have already endorsed the bill.
“Victims of sexual assault, domestic violence, and dating violence should not have to fear being re-traumatized while in the care of law enforcement and EMTs,” Schakowsky said in a news release Wednesday. “Our public institutions serving our communities as well as law enforcement and EMTs assisting victims of sexual assault and domestic violence must understand the impact of traumatic events on individuals.”
U.S. Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-Calif.) introduced the bill with Schakowsky. U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson (D-Ga.), U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-Mich.) and U.S. Rep. Deborah Ross (D-N.C.) are co-sponsoring the bill.
If passed, Anna’s Law would establish a grant program through the Department of Health and Human Services to fund evidence-based, victim-centered training for law enforcement and emergency medical personnel, with annual training hour requirements. It would also require the Department to collect data on the program and submit yearly progress reports to Congress.
“This important issue was brought to my attention by my constituent, Anna, who was sexually assaulted and re-traumatized while working with law enforcement,” Schakowsky said in the press release. “I am honored to introduce legislation to help ensure this will not happen to others.”
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