LLF attorney Kristi Schubert:
“Many states still allow victims of rape to be charged hundreds and sometimes thousands of dollars to undergo a so called “rape kit” exam. These exams collect crucial evidence. They also benefit the entire community by helping to identify repeat perpetrators of sexual violence. Thankfully, Louisiana now covers all costs of every rape kit exam performed in Louisiana. Any rape kit exam performed in Louisiana is now completely free of charge to the victim.”
This National Public Radio article, “Years After Sexual Assault, Survivors Hounded To Pay Bills For The Rape Kit Exam,” discusses how payment for rape kit exams and other medical services after a sexual assault differs from state-to-state. Perhaps the Violence Against Women Act, often referred to as VAWA, that is up for reauthorization this year will address these payment issues at the federal level.
