Survivors can now track their S.A.F.E. kits
On January 23, 2025, Governor Phil Murphy signed into law S715/A908, known as The New Jersey Sexual Assault Evidence Tracking Act, establishing an internet-based tracking system for sexual assault forensic evidence (S.A.F.E.) kits. This system enhances transparency and empowers survivors by allowing them to monitor the status and location of their kits throughout the investigative process.
Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson, a primary sponsor, emphasized the importance of this legislation in supporting survivors’ rights and promoting accountability within the criminal justice system.
Younity was honored to be present at the signing ceremony, reaffirming our commitment to advocating for victim-survivors and collaborating on initiatives that promote a more just and equitable community. Learn more here.
This law marks a significant step forward in New Jersey’s survivor-centered, trauma-informed response to sexual violence. By granting survivors real-time access to SAFE kit information, the state aims to foster trust and encourage reporting.
Survivors Now Have Expanded Legal Rights to Seek Justice
New Jersey has taken a significant step forward in supporting victim-survivors of sexual violence with the passage of The Justice for Survivors Act (A-4684/S-3564). Signed into law
by Governor Phil Murphy, this legislation removes legal barriers
that previously made it harder for survivors to seek justice.
What does this mean?
- Survivors now have more time to file lawsuits against their abusers, even
if the original statute of limitations has passed. - Nonprofits can no longer claim immunity if they were negligent in cases of sexual abuse, allowing survivors to hold them accountable.
- Public entities, like government agencies, can no longer use immunity as a defense in civil cases related to sexual violence.
These changes ensure survivors have a fair chance to pursue justice, no matter when the abuse occurred or who was responsible. Younity fully supports this law and remains committed to providing resources, advocacy, and hope for all victim-survivors.
