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Congressman Tom Reed offered support for a new bill, the Survivor's Bill of Rights Act of 2016.  The proposal adds numerous protections for sexual assault victims, including ensuring that rape examinations are provided to victims in federal rape cases at no charge.

"We care about the victims of sexual assault," said Reed. "It's only right that we stand with these victims by encouraging them to come forward and providing them with the resources and compassion they need to recover."

Often times, sexual assault victims undergo a medical exam as part of the criminal investigation into their assault but then receive a bill for medical services.

"This is an injustice through and through. If anyone is assaulted, they should have access to the care they need and cost should never be a barrier to getting that care or to fully investigating this crime," Reed continued.

Additionally, the bill will require that victims are provided with the results of their exam, including a DNA profile match, toxicology report, and medical information that is part of the exam, provided the information does not compromise an ongoing investigation.

The bill also set national standards for the management of rape kits, and requires that victims are provided with the information regarding those procedures. "We need to raise the bar nationwide and make sure every victim is given information about the standard practices regarding their medical information and their case. This is just common sense," said Reed.

Lastly, the bill develops a working group to improve the processes for addressing sexual assault nationwide. The working group aims to improve coordination between the States Attorney Generals, U.S. Attorney General, State Law enforcement agency and forensic lab directors.  This group will work on solutions for two years before providing Congress with recommendations.

The House was expected to consider the bill Tuesday.

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