A major change is coming to Kentucky’s emergency departments, and it’s one that could make a real difference for survivors of sexual assault.
Recent amendments to KRS 216B.400 now require all hospital emergency department staff to complete specialized training on sexual assault response. This is part of HB 219, Kentucky’s latest legislative step toward ensuring consistent, survivor-centered care in emergency settings.
What’s New?
Under HB 219, hospitals are responsible for making sure their emergency department teams are trained to:
- Respond compassionately and appropriately to sexual assault survivors
- Understand and uphold survivors’ rights under state law
- Coordinate effectively with sexual assault nurse examiners (SANEs), child abuse pediatricians, and advocacy organizations
- Maintain proper evidence handling and provide survivors with clear information about reporting options
Who’s Leading This Work?
The Kentucky Association of Sexual Assault Programs (KASAP) is coordinating statewide training efforts through the Sexual Assault Response Team Advisory Committee (SART-AC).
SART-AC brings together expertise from across the state, including:
- Kentucky Hospital Association
- Children’s Advocacy Centers of Kentucky
- Kentucky Board of Nursing
- SANE and child abuse pediatrics experts
Together, this team is working to ensure that all hospitals regardless of whether they are rural or urban, large or small, have access to the same comprehensive, standardized training curriculum.
What to Expect
The curriculum is currently in development and will be available later this year. It is designed to help hospitals meet compliance while also strengthening their approach to survivor care.
Questions? Need Support?
We know policy changes like this can raise questions. We’re here to help.
Contact:
Jenna Cassady
KASAP Staff Attorney
jcassady@kasap.org
