New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy has signed legislation that requires the Office of the Attorney General to establish an internet-based rape kit tracking system.
The bill, which passed both the Senate and General Assembly unanimously, requires the attorney general to issue guidelines or a directive establishing a sexual assault forensic evidence (SAFE) kit tracking system accessible to the victim; state, county, or municipal law enforcement officers; and, as deemed appropriate, employees of a health care facility or laboratory.
“Survivors of sexual assault who show strength and resilience in coming forward deserve recognition and support,” said Governor Murphy. “This well overdue bill cements into law the work our Administration has undertaken to support survivors. Through the groundwork laid by the Office of the Attorney General, in collaboration with the Division of Violence Intervention and Victim Assistance, the Division of Criminal Justice, and other law enforcement officials, survivors will have access to a dedicated tracking system to stay informed through every step of their pursuit of justice.”
Back in 2023, New Jersey Attorney General Matt Platkin announced the receipt of $2 million in competitive Federal funding to establish an advanced tracking system for the state’s SAFE kits.
“This legislation is a significant moment in our fight to ensure justice for survivors of sexual assault. The implementation of SAFE Kit procedures to be used in rape or sexual assault cases provides law enforcement with an invaluable tool as they conduct their investigations and also offers survivors peace of mind as they navigate a system that too often leaves them in the dark,” said State Senator Paul Moriarty. “This legislation puts New Jersey solidly in line with several other states, enabling investigators to track evidence better and streamline data in pursuing justice.”
