Bill > SB531

This bill, known as the Verbal Waiver Transparency Act, prohibits law enforcement agencies from presenting victims of sexually assaultive behavior with forms or requesting verbal acknowledgments that could be interpreted as relieving the agency of its obligations, limiting investigations or prosecutions, or restricting a victim's legal rights. "Sexually assaultive behavior" is defined by existing law, and a "victim" is any person suspected of or claiming to have been subjected to such behavior. If a victim requests a limitation or suspension of an investigation, the law enforcement agency must document the request and follow up with the victim according to recommended practices. Violations can lead to legal action by the victim for injunctive or declaratory relief, and all law enforcement agencies are required to adopt policies to enforce these provisions by January 1, 2021, and submit them to a specific committee by January 15, 2021, with the act taking effect on October 1, 2026.