State Rep. Julie Alexander’s plan to ensure victims and witnesses of sexual assault are not silenced was approved today by the Michigan House with overwhelming support.

Alexander, of Hanover, said the measure is part of a comprehensive bipartisan plan to solve problems brought to light by the House’s inquiry into the handling of the Larry Nassar sexual assault investigation.

“The Nassar case made it clear that very serious cases of sexual assault can go unreported,” Alexander said. “We must take steps to fix the problems brought to light and prevent sexual predators from preying on our children.”

Alexander said current Michigan law only covers the use of physical force in preventing the reporting of sexual assault to authorities. House Bill 4374 would make it crime for an individual to intentionally use their professional position of authority to prevent such a report.

“We must never allow someone to use their position of authority to convince a subordinate not to report a crime,” Alexander said. “People who try to silence survivors of sexual abuse must be held accountable.”

The plan now advances to the Senate for consideration.

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