Historic Sexual Assault and Domestic Violation legislation signed into law

By The Berlin Sun, July 20, 2020

CONCORD — Three comprehensive omnibus bills, have been officially signed into law by Gov. Chris Sununu in what has been an unprecedented and remarkable year for survivor-centered, and trauma-informed legislation. The passage of these bills is of particular importance as the state strives to respond to the coronavirus pandemic, which has profoundly impacted the experiences of survivors throughout New Hampshire.

“We are thrilled to see the passage of these bills into law and are grateful for the leadership of Gov. Sununu as well as for the work of N.H. state legislators, survivors, and allies who saw this legislation through to the finish line during this truly unpredictable session.” said Amanda Grady Sexton, director of public affairs for the N.H. Coalition Against Domestic & Sexual Violence. “This legislation could not be timelier. Expanding vital protections, services, and support, especially amidst this global pandemic, will improve the lives of survivors, who are under incredible pressure and danger due to the fallout of COVID-19.”

Through HB705, survivors of sexual assault and incest will no longer be restricted to arbitrary timeframes when it comes to seeking justice and bringing forth a civil claim, as the bill eliminates the civil statute of limitations. The bill also updates New Hampshire’s sexual assault statute by making it illegal for a spouse to sexually assault their partner and ensures that all individuals are protected against sexual violence under the law.

The legislation also updates the statutory Victim Bill of Rights for the first time since 2010, which will now provide statutory rights to the victims of a misdemeanor sexual assault, increase the total recovery amount a survivor can receive under the Victims’ Compensation Fund, and establish a committee to study the needs of crime victims.

Read more at https://www.conwaydailysun.com/berlin_sun/community/health/historic-sexual-assault-and-domestic-violation-legislation-signed-into-law/article_1a27b088-ca97-11ea-bdf5-cff7c2ff8834.html.