Iowa lawmakers approve funding for sexual assault forensic exam services

DES MOINES, Iowa (Gray Media Iowa State Capitol Bureau ) – Survivors of sexual assault could get additional resources under a bipartisan bill that Iowa senators and representatives approved today.

If the governor signs it, the bill would provide $1.5 million to cover costs for sexual assault forensic exam services.

The money would go to nonprofits that specifically perform forensic exams for evidence for survivors of sexual assault.

Republican Sen. Cherielynn Westrich thanked survivors who advocated for the bill.

“Connect them to the care and support that they need to heal,” Westrich said. “It also helps our system respond earlier and more effectively so fewer victims fall through the cracks. This is about protection and prevention and getting survivors and victims a real chance at safety and recovery.”

The state money would also fund a new sexual assault examination center in Des Moines.

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Isabella Warren covers state government and politics for Gray Media-owned stations in Iowa. Email her at isabella.warren@kcrg.com; and follow her on Facebook at Isabella Warren TV on X/Twitter@isabellaw_gray, and on Instagram@IsabellaWarrenTV.