Bill > A01970

This bill amends the New York Public Health Law to improve the tracking and handling of sexual offense evidence collection kits. The bill introduces new requirements for hospitals, law enforcement, and other entities involved in the chain of custody for these kits. Specifically, when a sexual assault survivor gives permission to release evidence to law enforcement, the law enforcement agency must retrieve the evidence within seven days and report it in the statewide electronic tracking system. Hospitals must now record the collection of reported evidence kits in the electronic tracking system and notify law enforcement within 48 hours of collection. The bill distinguishes between "reported" and "unreported" evidence collection kits, with "reported" kits being those where the survivor has consented to reporting the assault to law enforcement. The statewide electronic tracking system will allow survivors to anonymously track the status of their evidence kit, and by January 1, 2025, all entities involved in the custody of these kits must participate in the tracking system. The goal is to provide more transparency and support for sexual assault survivors while ensuring proper handling of forensic evidence.

Health and Social Services, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A1970