Congresswoman Torres Fights for Increased Civil Rights for Survivors of Sexual Assault

Washington, D.C.- Congresswoman Norma J. Torres (CA-35) introduced today two bills that would improve legal protections for survivors of sexual violence. The two bills seek to expand legal protections for victims of nonconsensual condom removal, commonly known as "stealthing." The legislation is introduced at the conclusion of Sexual Assault Awareness Month.

The first bill, the "Consent is Key Act" would encourage states to voluntarily pass laws authorizing civil damages for victims of nonconsensual condom removal by increasing funding levels for federal domestic violence programs. The second bill, the "Stealthing Act" would create a federal civil right of action for survivors of non-consensual condom removal, which would allow survivors to sue assailants in civil court for monetary damages.

"Nonconsensual condom removal or stealthing is a grave form of sexual assault that can have life-altering consequences, such as unwanted pregnancy or sexually-transmitted infections or diseases," said Congresswoman Torres. "It is our job in Congress to ensure that survivors of all forms of sexual assault have a path towards justice, and to increase awareness of sexual assault in all of its forms at the federal level. These two bills will help survivors know they have options for support, and that they are not alone."

This legislation was introduced during the 117th Congress, and Congresswoman Torres has reintroduced both bills for the 118th Congress. The two bills are endorsed by End Rape on Campus, National Women's Law Center, the National Alliance to End Sexual Violence, and Civic Nation.

Background

Recent studies have shown that the practice of nonconsensual condom removal known as "stealthing" is far from uncommon. In 2021, California became the first state to make it a civil offense for someone to remove a condom without their partner's consent. Still, for survivors of nonconsensual condom removal there is hardly any legal recourse.

To read the "Consent is Key Act" click here. To read the "Stealthing Act" click here.

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