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VICTIM
LEGISLATION
Sexual Violence Protection Act
Senate Bill 150
The majority of sexual assaults are committed by perpetrators known to victims. Traumatized, and fearful of repeated assaults, many victims of sexual violence
are in need of orders of protection to help keep them safe from perpetrators. Yet, under current Pennsylvania law, many victims of sexual violence, such as those depicted below, are not legally protected:
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An elderly woman sexually assaulted by her
caregiver
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A woman molested by her landlord who has the
keys to her apartment
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A recent high school graduate sexually
assaulted by a trusted neighbor
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A professional sexually assaulted by a work
colleague
Currently, PA law provides protection for domestic violence victims who are assaulted by a spouse, relative, and/or intimate partner. Many sexual violence
victims are not eligible for such protection because their assailants are not spouses, relatives, and/or intimate partners. Sexual violence victims who are assaulted by a stranger, acquaintance, friend, classmate, colleague,
or neighbor/landlord are overlooked by existing law wand without the legal protections they deserve and need.
Senate Bill 150 was passed by the Senate in March 2007 and referred to your Judiciary committee in early May 2007. This bill will enhance the safety and
effectiveness of PFA (Protection from Abuse) orders throughout the State, thereby helping to reduce sexual violence in Pennsylvania.
SB150 amends the Protection from Abuse Act to expand protection to individuals who are victims of sexual violence. As Senator Greenleaf said in
supporting passage of the bill “… a criminal complaint does not have to be filed, and the reason for that is that only 28% of victims of sexual abuse and sexual violence report their crimes but they are still subject to
violence, harassment and intimidation by the perpetrator.” The bill also removes the requirement that victims pay court fees.
Sexual violence humiliates, degrades, and terrorizes victims. Victims of sexual assault need additional protection from abuse while also protecting the due
process rights of all parties.
Here are ways that you can help:
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