Colorado Senate Advances Landmark Bill to Protect Crime Survivors
A new bill aimed at supporting victim-survivors of crimes has moved closer to becoming law. The Colorado Senate passed the Measure to Support Victim-Survivors of Crimes bill with minimal discussion, sending it back for a final vote. If approved, the legislation will introduce key changes to how courts and law enforcement handle cases involving sexual violence, domestic abuse, and human trafficking.
The bill focuses on protecting those who have experienced sex crimes by allowing their testimony to be given separately from their alleged attackers. Courts would be able to take statements from victims of domestic violence or human trafficking in a private room, broadcast via closed-circuit TV to the court. This measure aims to reduce the emotional strain on survivors during legal proceedings.
Another provision requires state peace officers to complete annual two-hour training on the effects of trauma for victim-survivors of sex crimes. The legislation also ensures that forensic scientists can testify remotely if both sides agree. Additionally, hospital staff would be permitted to provide a 30-day supply of medication for sexually transmitted infections to emergency room patients who have survived sexual assault.
The bill includes further protections, such as mandatory notification when testing results are ready and how victims can access them. An amendment was added to speed up appeals, allowing special motions in county courts to go directly to district courts, and district court appeals to move straight to the appeals court. If passed, the Colorado sexual assault response review board would also gain three new members.
The Senate has not yet scheduled the bill's third and final reading, but its next floor session is set for Friday morning. After this stage, it will proceed to the state House for further consideration.
The proposed law seeks to improve support for victim-survivors through clearer procedures and additional safeguards. If approved, it will introduce mandatory training for officers, streamline testimony processes, and expand access to medical care. The bill's next step is a final Senate vote before moving to the House for review.
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