TRENTON — Gov. Chris Christie signed legislation today that will make rape victims not responsible for the cost of forensic testing related to their cases. “Sexual assault is a violent crime and its victims must be treated with respect and compassion,” Christie said in a statement. “This legislation ensures the needs of assault victims are met appropriately and without...
Gov. Chris Christie, seen here in this file photo, today announced legislation making rape victims not responsible for the cost of collecting evidence through forensic testing.TRENTON — Gov. Chris Christie signed legislation today that will make rape victims not responsible for the cost of forensic testing related to their cases.
“Sexual assault is a violent crime and its victims must be treated with respect and compassion,” Christie said in a statement. “This legislation ensures the needs of assault victims are met appropriately and without cost and that forensic evidence is collected and handled correctly.”
Supporters of the legislation had become critical of the governor in recent weeks when the deadline to sign the bill began approaching. Christie dismissed the criticism earlier this week as purely political.
The legislation takes effect immediately.
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