PHX Reporter

Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey has signed a bill that will protect victims of sexual crimes from having to pay for any medical or forensic examinations in connection with the crimes.

According to a press release, Senate bill 1593 was sponsored by State Sen. Sine Kerr (R-Buckeye) and will prohibit healthcare facilities from charging victims any fees for medical and forensic interviews or examinations for a sexual assaults. The bill also prevents healthcare facilities from billing sexual assault patients seeking care.

“Sending victims of sexual abuse a bill for their examinations is an unacceptable and abusive practice,” Kerr said, according to the press release. “Senate Bill 1593 will make sure it no longer happens in Arizona. I was proud to sponsor this important legislation and work with my fellow legislators to pass it unanimously through both the House and Senate. I’m grateful to Governor Ducey for his dedication to supporting sexual assault survivors and all vulnerable Arizonans, and for signing this legislation that will protect so many people moving forward.”

Victims of sexual assault crimes have previously been charged up to $800 to see a forensic nurse to collect evidence of the crimes they were the victim of. 

“Charging victims of sexual crimes for their medical examinations is shameful, and we cannot let it happen in Arizona,” Ducey said. “There is no other crime where a victim is charged for the collection of evidence — so thanks to the leadership and advocacy of Senator Kerr and community groups across the state, we’re tightening the law with Senate Bill 1593. Arizona will continue to stand up for victims and survivors and help protect them as they recover, and I thank everyone who supported this crucial legislation.”

SB 1593 also expands the list of sexual offenses that will require counties to pay for medical and forensic examinations including additional sexual crimes against victims ages 15 to 17 that were not previously included in the statute. The bill will also require that counties publish the name of the county official responsible for paying for any medical or forensic examination on the respective county's website. 

“Survivors of sexual violence deserve care, compassion and support,” said Arizona Child and Family Advocacy Network Executive Director Trevor Umphress said, according to the press release. “They should never receive a bill for their medical examinations — just like every other crime. We are grateful to Governor Ducey, Senator Kerr and everyone who supported Senate Bill 1593 for their attention to this important issue.”

Ducey signed 11 other bills along with SB 1593.