Sen. Gounardes’ Bill to Strengthen Protections for Sexual Assault Survivors is Signed by Governor
New law extends retention period for sexual assault evidence kits, protects critical evidence, and establishes new working group
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: JUNE 8, 2026
New York State Senator Andrew Gounardes issued the following statement after his legislation to strengthen protections for survivors of sexual assault was signed by Governor Kathy Hochul:
“Survivors deserve a system that gives them real care and compassion, and that meets them with the patience and protection they need. My law ensures sexual assault evidence kits are protected, gives young survivors more agency over their own cases, and lays the groundwork for a more modern, effective evidence tracking system. This is about building a criminal justice system that does right by all New Yorkers, and it’s the least we can do to support survivors in their moment of need."
Background:
Senator Gounardes’ legislation (S.9585/A.10542) strengthens protections for survivors of sexual assault by building on previously-passed legislation addressing the collection, tracking and management of sexual assault evidence kits.
The new law extends the retention period for kits for minors until the survivor turns 40 years old, giving them more time to decide whether to submit the kit for forensic testing. The law also safeguards sexual assault evidence by prohibiting the destruction of a kit at the request of a parent or guardian when the victim is a minor, a vulnerable elderly person, or an individual who is deemed incompetent or physically disabled—ensuring critical evidence is preserved.
The legislation also establishes a working group with agencies including the New York State Department of Health, the Office of Victim Services, and the State Police Forensic Investigations Center, which will collaborate on modernizing the sexual offense evidence tracking system, streamlining collection and testing processes, and further strengthening evidence management.
Press Contact:
Billy Richling
Communications Director
State Senator Andrew Gounardes
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