Bill > AB2119

This bill aims to improve the investigation and prosecution of sexual assault and domestic violence cases by addressing gender bias and enhancing victim rights. It establishes that victims of sexual assault or domestic violence have the right to a fair, unbiased, and complete investigation, regardless of their gender or other personal characteristics, and allows victims to request a reinvestigation by the district attorney, with specific provisions for cases reported between January 1, 2020, and January 1, 2027. The bill also creates a civil cause of action for victims if a law enforcement agency violates these rights, making this provision retroactive to investigations before January 1, 2027, and requires district attorneys to establish a process for reviewing these cases, including reporting their decisions to victims. Furthermore, it extends the statute of limitations for certain felony sexual assault and domestic violence offenses that were not expired by January 1, 2027, to begin running from that date. The bill mandates that training for law enforcement officers on sexual assault and domestic violence investigations must include trauma-informed methods, gender-neutral language, and bias prevention best practices, and requires the development of a specific course on gender bias in these investigations. Additionally, it directs the State Department of Public Health to create public education materials emphasizing that all genders can be victims or perpetrators of sexual assault and domestic violence and have equal rights to safety and legal protections.

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB2119