In the state of Virginia, there are 122 hospitals but only 16 provide sexual assault exams. As a result, victims of sexual assault are often forced to drive hours to receive proper testing. A study conducted by the Joint Commission on Health Care explains that many victims are required to drive further. That may prevent many victims from taking the essential step allowing the perpetrator to remain free and violate again.

When speaking with ABC 13 News, Camille Cooper, vice president of public policy for RAINN, said only 2% of registered nurses in Virginia can perform a forensic rape kit exam. It is argued that giving victims more places to get tested will ensure more criminals are put behind bars.

The study concluded that more victims came forward for forensic nurse exams when the services and the nurses qualified to offer them were available at more hospitals. In 2016, there were 72 cases at the UVA medical center. After changes were implemented, that number rose by 129%.

Senator Creigh Deeds has created legislation that would pave the way for more forensic nurses in Virginia. It would also create a coordinator responsible for ensuring hospitals are getting the money they need. The fiscal impact of the bill would be about 140 thousand dollars and that money would be used to pay for the coordinator position.

That bill, SB 373, passed the Senate unanimously. Before the bill can become law, it will need to pass the House and be signed by the Governor.