According to a report from Louisville Public Media, a legislative effort to address Indiana’s backlog of untested rape kits is gaining momentum, with a bill advancing unanimously out of a House committee this week.

House Bill 1413, introduced by Rep. Becky Cash (R-Zionsville), seeks to allocate $2.5 million to bolster the state’s two crime labs, which are responsible for processing rape kits connected to police investigations.

“Our state crime labs struggle to offer competitive salaries,” Cash explained. “Many skilled professionals working in these labs can earn higher wages elsewhere due to the advanced degrees their roles require.”

The funding aims to enhance staffing and resources to eliminate delays in processing evidence—a crucial step in seeking justice for survivors of sexual assault.

Beth White, who leads the Indiana Coalition to End Sexual Assault, emphasized the importance of ensuring every kit is tested, calling it a vital way to honor the courage of victims.

“Rape kit testing not only helps identify serial offenders but also prevents future crimes,” White said.

The bill will now proceed to the House Ways and Means Committee, where lawmakers will evaluate the proposed funding.

Residents in Terre Haute and across the state are encouraged to follow this legislative development closely. Testing backlogged kits can play a significant role in improving public safety and supporting survivors of sexual violence.

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