HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHP) — Governor Josh Shapiro signed Act 122 into law on Wednesday, marking Pennsylvania’s first effort to establish a statewide sexual assault evidence tracking system.
The budget for 2026-2027 will provide a $12 million increase for rape crisis centers, nearly doubling state support and ensuring survivors have access to recovery services.
For reports of sexual assault, preserving evidence through forensic exams is reportedly essential for holding offenders accountable. According to a release from the Shapiro administration, kit testing can be a lengthy process. Automated tracking systems reportedly help survivors monitor progress, improve efficiency, reduce delays and make the criminal justice process more transparent.
“PSP understands the need to investigate sexual assault cases thoroughly and expeditiously while keeping survivors informed every step of the way,” Director of PSP’s Bureau of Forensic Services, Major Colette Smith, said. “This tracking program is a critical resource that does just that, strengthening transparency, accountability and trust between survivors and law enforcement.”
The Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) is collaborated with 12 hospitals, 64 police departments, a variety of forensic nurses and labs throughout Erie, Lancaster and York counties to debut the tracking system before the statewide launch in December. These pilots help PCCD ensure that the process is consistent and centered on survivors.
The Shapiro-Davis Administration has secured $19.5 million in funding for the Victims Compensation Assistance Program (VCAP), which includes $4.5 million in the budget to help ensure victims can access financial assistance after a crime takes place.
The kits are scheduled to be distributed statewide sometime in December.