On January 30, 2025, the Maryland Legislature introduced Senate Bill 669, a significant legislative proposal aimed at addressing the backlog of untested sexual assault evidence collection kits, commonly known as rape kits. The bill establishes a Rape Kit Testing Grant Fund, designed to provide essential funding to law enforcement agencies and support services for victims of sexual assault.

The primary purpose of Senate Bill 669 is to facilitate the testing of sexual assault evidence kits that have remained untested, particularly those collected before October 1, 2020. Key provisions of the bill include financial support for forensic laboratories to conduct these tests, as well as funding for the Office of the Attorney General to assist in investigations related to these untested kits. This initiative seeks to enhance the efficiency of law enforcement responses to sexual assault cases and ensure that justice is served for victims.

Additionally, the bill allocates resources to the federally recognized state sexual assault coalition, which will establish a statewide victim notification hotline. This hotline aims to provide victims with advocacy, support, and crucial information regarding untested rape kits and their rights. Furthermore, the bill includes provisions for peer-to-peer telehealth programs, enhancing mental health support for survivors.

The introduction of Senate Bill 669 has sparked discussions among lawmakers and advocacy groups. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step toward addressing the systemic issues surrounding sexual assault investigations and the treatment of victims. They emphasize the importance of timely testing of evidence to improve the chances of prosecution and to provide closure for survivors.

Opposition to the bill has been minimal, but some critics express concerns about the allocation of funds and the potential for bureaucratic delays in the distribution process. They urge for clear guidelines to ensure that the funding reaches the intended recipients efficiently.

The implications of Senate Bill 669 are profound, as it not only aims to rectify past oversights in the handling of sexual assault evidence but also seeks to empower victims through improved access to information and support services. If passed, the bill could lead to a significant increase in the number of tested kits, potentially resulting in more prosecutions and a greater sense of justice for survivors of sexual assault.

As the legislative process unfolds, stakeholders will be closely monitoring the bill's progress, anticipating debates and potential amendments that may arise in the coming weeks. The outcome of Senate Bill 669 could set a precedent for how Maryland addresses sexual assault cases and supports victims in the future.