State Rep. Sue Allor’s plan to ensure survivors of sexual assault have access to critical health exams has been signed into law.

“No one who experiences the trauma of a sexual assault should ever have to worry about whether they can afford an exam,” said Allor, of Wolverine. “Forensic examinations provide important information to help deliver justice, prevent future assaults and keep our communities safe.”

Michigan’s SAFE Response program ensures victims receive a forensic medical examination at no cost and without any obligation to participate in a criminal investigation. The program reimburses health care providers for the cost of forensic medical examinations. However, Allor said the cost of providing services to sexual assault survivors has increased over the past decade and health care providers have started shouldering more and more of the financial burden.

In order to ensure these services continue to be carried out, Allor’s new law provides additional financial relief to health care providers and other entities that partner with sexual assault crisis centers. It also ensures the exams can include a colposcopy or high-resolution digital photography when they are needed to document injury or provide evidence that can lead to justice.

“By increasing the amount of funding available, we ensure all Michigan residents who experience a sexual assault have access to medical care important to their physical and mental well-being,” Allor said.

House Bill 4506 is now Public Act 526 of 2018.

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