Press Releases

Today, Rep. Tim Kennedy (D-NY-26) released the following statement after introducing the bipartisan Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner in VA Hospitals (SANE VA) Act, along with Rep. Tim Burchett (R-TN-02). Additional co-sponsors include Reps. Jared Moskowitz (D-FL-23), Nancy Mace (R-NC-01) and Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL-13). 

This bill would direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure that sexual assault nurse examiners are employed at certain Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities. 

“As a nation, we have a responsibility to ensure that every veteran deserves the care and dignity they deserve,” said Congressman Kennedy. “I am proud to join the bipartisan Homeward Bound Act that takes a crucial step to guaranteeing access to specialized sexual assault nurse examiners as VA facilities, providing survivors with the compassionate and expert care they need to begin healing.”

“It’s an awful reality that some of our servicemembers are victims of sexual assault, and we need to make sure they get the care they need in those situations. These people put their safety on the line to protect our country, it’s our duty to care for them in return.” said Congressman Burchett.

“Our veterans deserve the most comprehensive healthcare possible, and that must include examinations and referrals for those who have been sexually assaulted. This is a critical piece of bipartisan legislation to support survivors who have risked their lives in service to our nation, and we owe it to our heroes to make this a priority.” Said Congressman Moskowitz.

"As a survivor, I know how hard it can be to come forward. Less than half of women in the military trust their chain of command to properly handle reports of sexual assault — and that’s unacceptable. The SANE Act is about fixing this broken system. We’re making sure VA hospitals have the resources and trained professionals survivors need, so women and girls aren’t left to fend for themselves. It’s time we start holding people accountable and ensure no survivor is abandoned by the system." Said Congresswoman Mace.

"We must ensure that Veterans who have suffered through traumatic sexual violence are heard and receive the support and justice they deserve. I am proud to back Congressman Burchett's legislation to protect their well-being," said Congresswoman Luna. "Nurse examiners who focus on sexual assault victims are crucial in providing the necessary forensic examinations for these survivors. We must guarantee this vital care within our VA medical facilities." Said Congresswoman Luna.

The full text of the bill can be found here. 

###