Bill > SB5355

This bill addresses safety and support for sexual assault survivors at institutions of higher education through several key provisions. First, the bill prohibits colleges and universities from pressuring or requesting students who report sexual misconduct to enter into nondisclosure agreements related to the incident. Second, the bill requires student and faculty identification cards at higher education institutions to include contact information for suicide prevention organizations and, for state universities and colleges, a phone number for a regional community-based organization focused on supporting survivors of sexual assault and gender-based violence. Third, the bill expands the rights of sexual assault survivors, including new provisions such as being informed in writing about policies for collecting and preserving sexual assault kits, receiving written notification before a sexual assault kit is destroyed, and having the right to request further preservation of their sexual assault kit. The bill also clarifies and strengthens existing rights for survivors throughout the investigatory and legal process, ensuring they have access to information, support services, and advocates. These changes aim to provide more comprehensive support and protection for survivors of sexual assault in educational settings, while giving them greater agency in reporting and pursuing their cases.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5355&Year=2025&Initiative=false