The Sexual Assault Survivors’ Task Force (SASTF), established by Governor Greg Abbott, has released its third Biennial Report to the Texas Legislature, presenting a series of policy recommendations aimed at enhancing support for survivors of sexual assault and improving the state's response to sex crimes.
Governor Abbott, who praised the task force’s efforts in a recent press release, emphasized the importance of continued action against sexual violence and expanding resources for victims. “Last session, I signed a law to permanently establish the Sexual Assault Survivors’ Task Force. Their critical work on behalf of Texas’ adult and child sexual assault survivors for the last four years has been a key component in our goal to raise awareness and combat this heinous crime,” Abbott stated.
The SASTF, which was officially established in 2019 and permanently codified into law with the passage of Senate Bill 1402 last year, focuses on a survivor-centered, coordinated approach to sexual violence across the state. The task force advocates for better support systems and more comprehensive legal responses for sexual assault survivors, regardless of age.
Key Recommendations
The task force’s latest report includes a range of proposals designed to strengthen both survivor support and offender accountability in Texas. Among the key recommendations are:
Expanding Survivors’ Rights:
Proposals include extending lease termination rights for survivors who need to relocate for safety reasons and providing reimbursement for up to 30 days of follow-up medical care for victims of sexual assault.
Certification and Training for Medical Professionals:
The task force recommends extending the certification periods for Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE), ensuring that these professionals remain qualified to provide essential medical and forensic care to survivors.
Improved Data Coordination:
A call for mandatory reporting by Sexual Assault Response Teams (SARTs) to enhance data coordination and improve overall response effectiveness to sexual assault cases.
Prohibiting Registered Sex Offenders from Rideshare Jobs:
The task force advocates for a ban on registered sex offenders working for rideshare companies such as Uber and Lyft, a move aimed at increasing public safety and preventing further victimization.
Expanded Use of Evidence in Court:
Recommendations also include allowing broader use of evidence in adult sexual assault cases, particularly evidence that helps clarify the defendant’s state of mind and relationship with the victim during the commission of the crime.
Legislative Review
The recommendations put forth by the Sexual Assault Survivors’ Task Force will be reviewed during the upcoming 89th Legislative Session, where state lawmakers will consider how best to implement these suggestions into law.
Governor Abbott reaffirmed his commitment to tackling sexual violence, noting the comprehensive approach Texas has taken to address sexual assault. “By actively engaging in crime prevention, prosecution, advocacy, and victim support, Texas is working tirelessly to protect the right of all Texans to live safely and securely,” Abbott said.
With the release of this report, the task force hopes to drive meaningful changes in policy and continue building on its mission to support survivors and hold offenders accountable. By taking action on these recommendations, Texas aims to further its commitment to combatting sexual violence and ensuring that survivors receive the support and resources they need to heal and rebuild their lives.
Looking Ahead
As lawmakers prepare for the 89th Legislative Session, all eyes will be on how the state moves forward with the task force’s proposals. Advocates and survivors alike are hopeful that these recommendations will pave the way for stronger laws, more comprehensive services, and a more coordinated response to sexual assault in Texas.
