Governor Andrew Cuomo today signed into law the "Safe Way Home Act" (S.3966A/A5775). The legislation provides survivors of sexual assault no-cost transportation from medical facilities where they received initial care in the wake of an assault to their home or a shelter.
"Sexual assault is a heinous crime that can have devastating impacts on survivors, especially in the immediate aftermath of the abuse they suffered," Governor Cuomo said. "This measure will provide some peace of mind and security at a time when victims are most vulnerable by helping ensure they get home or to a shelter safely."
This legislation will go into effect after 90 days.
Senator Julia Salazar said, "The Safe Way Home Act is an important victory for survivors of sexual violence, and its creation was directly informed by one of our constituents who survived sexual violence. Through this law, we are demonstrating to survivors that ensuring their safety, and the safety of crime victim advocates supporting them, is a top priority. Thank you to the Governor's office and Assemblyman Lentol for partnering with us to make the Safe Way Home Act a reality."
Assemblyman Joseph R. Lentol said, "The Safe Way Home Act will provide safety and peace of mind by ensuring that survivors will not be burdened with the logistics of or paying for transportation home. This legislation is the perfect example of community activism coming to fruition. I am very proud to work with Deborah Spiroff on this important measure that will aid victims of sexual assault. I thank Senator Salazar for sponsoring this legislation in the Senate and applaud Governor Cuomo for signing this important measure that will go a long way to aid survivors of sexual violence."
For more information, eligibility guidelines and to locate a victim assistance program, visit this site or call 1-800-247-8035.
Source: The Office of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo
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