HB0168 | Sale of Sexual Assault Test Kits Prohibited

Description
General Description: 

This bill prohibits over-the-counter sexual assault evidence kits.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill:
prohibits selling or providing an over-the-counter sexual assault evidence kit; and imposes a penalty for a violation.

Bill Details
Year: 
2021
Status: 
House/ filed
Last Action: 
Mar 05, 2021
Sponsor
Representative
Democrat - District 26
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

Sexual Assault is a serious offense and the sale of these kits would give false hope for any potential prosecution. Even cases with evidence that is collected in a professional manner is difficult to prosecute.

When a victim goes to a hospital to get evidence of rape collected they are treated with a presumption of belief by hospital staff and victims advocates.

Victims are also provided with other resources to deal with the emotional trauma of being raped, this would not be provided for those who purchase kits on the internet.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
National PTA and Utah PTA Resolutions: 

Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations advocate for the protection of rights of victims and support provided measures for the physical, psychological, and social recovery of victims of sexual exploitation; and be it further
Resolved, That Utah PTA and its constituent associations encourage and call for members, policy makers, schools and community organizations to actively raise awareness and to address those conditions and situations that contribute to the sexual exploitation of a minor.

Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

Equity in the form of equal justice, privileges, opportunities, and responsibilities in every phase of life for all children and youth, while recognizing that each child is unique with individual needs and talents.

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

5. Support measures to promote safe and healthy environments and behaviors for children to prevent suicide, sexual exploitation, and human trafficking,

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

National PTA Position Statement - Child Safety and Protection: Protect children from violence.