The Office of the Governor of the State of California
04/15/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 04/15/2025 13:10
First Partner Siebel Newsom releases recommendations for improving support for survivors of sexual assault
Apr 15, 2025
First Partner Siebel Newsom releases recommendations for improving support for survivors of sexual assault
What you need to know: The First Partner released the final report of a working group tasked with developing recommendations for policymakers, healthcare providers, law enforcement, and the judicial system in order to better support survivors of sexual assault.
SAN FRANCISCO - California First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom today released a comprehensive roadmap to improve California's response and resources for survivors of sexual assault. The final report is the culmination of the First Partner's Working Group on Support for Survivors of Sexual Assault, which she co-chaired with retired Alameda County District Attorney Nancy O'Malley. The report identifies gaps and offers recommendations to ensure survivors are met with dignity, respect, and a path to justice.
"As a survivor, the work of preventing sexual violence and supporting other survivors is deeply personal to me, as it is to so many others. The Working Group on Support for Survivors of Sexual Assault's final report is more than a set of recommendations, it's a call to action for every system designed to support and protect survivors. We've laid out a bold, actionable path forward that is rooted in healing, justice, and accountability because every survivor deserves to be treated with dignity. Now is the time for leaders at every level to join us in turning these solutions into action and building a stronger, safer California for everyone."
First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom
"For nearly 50 years, California has stood as a national leader in combating, responding to, caring for, and empowering victims of sexual assault crimes. We have done so much, with so much more to be done. Our report makes it clear that all professionals with whom sexual assault victim-survivors engage must be trained and committed to ensuring they're treated with care, dignity, compassion and empowerment. I believe this Report will be the impetus for all of us to become warriors to combat and end sexual assault in California, in America, and across the globe."
Nancy O'Malley, Retired Alameda County District Attorney
The working group, composed of experts across government, public health, law enforcement, the judicial system, and advocacy was convened by First Partner Siebel Newsom in 2023 to address the persistent challenges in the response to sexual violence. The report serves as a blueprint for policymakers, law enforcement, healthcare providers, and community leaders to make meaningful progress.
The working group's report highlights California's leadership in addressing sexual violence, including the establishment of the nation's first Victim Compensation Program, the creation of Rape Crisis Centers, and the implementation of trauma-informed practices. Yet, it acknowledges that systemic barriers continue to prevent survivors from accessing the care and justice they deserve.
The recommendations include:
- Evidence-based educational materials on sexual assault myths and trauma survivor behaviors for defense attorneys to review before a trial begins;
- Trauma-informed jury instruction as well as required trauma-informed training for district attorneys;
- A clear process for reporting survivor feedback and implementing policy changes based on feedback;
- Ensured culturally specific, language-accessible support, so no survivor is left behind;
- Strengthened prevention efforts, including consent-based education in our schools;
- And the coordination of services statewide, so healing and support are available no matter your zip code.
The full report is available here.
Recent news
ICYMI: Crime dropped significantly last year, according to early data
Apr 15, 2025
News What you need to know: Preliminary data suggests property and violent crimes in California were down in 2024. Sacramento, California - As the state continues to invest in the safety and security of California communities, new data suggests violent and property...
Governor Newsom, Legislature double down on state's critical cap-and-trade program in face of federal threats
Apr 15, 2025
News What you need to know: With one of the state's leading climate programs - cap-and-trade - set to expire in 2030, Governor Newsom, Senate President pro Tempore Mike McGuire and Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas announced they would seek an extension of the program....
Governor Newsom issues order extending protections of Los Angeles area firestorm survivors from predatory real estate speculators
Apr 14, 2025
News What you need to know: Governor Newsom extended an executive order from January barring predatory investors from making unsolicited undervalued property offers to families in areas impacted by the Los Angeles area firestorms. LOS ANGELES - Governor Gavin Newsom...