LANSING — Today, the House of Representatives passed a bipartisan package of bills aimed at combatting sexual assault in the state. Included in the package was House Bill 5788, introduced by state Rep. Erika Geiss (D-Taylor), which strengthens sentencing guidelines for those who engage in sexual misconduct with a patient under the pretext of medical treatment. In response, Rep. Geiss, vice-chair of the Progressive Women’s Caucus, issued the following statement:
“As elected officials, it is incumbent upon us to be a voice for those who may be unable to speak for themselves, especially our young people. These bills are only the beginning toward ensuring survivors of abuse and assault are protected from predators in our state. Today has moved us closer to our goal, but our work is not done. I am confident that the legislature will continue relentlessly pursuing policies that will protect survivors in our state, improve accountability and ultimately prevent sexual assault once and for all.”