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WASHINGTON, D.C., (Jan. 23, 2025) - Today, U.S. Rep. Tim Burchett, R-Tenn., introduced the bipartisan Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner in VA Hospitals (SANE VA) Act. Original co-sponsors are Reps. Jared Moskowitz, D-Fla., Don Davis, D-N.C., Nancy Mace, R-S.C., and Anna Paulina Luna, R-Fla.
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.
"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," said Rep. Tim Burchett. "These people put their safety on the line to protect our country; it's our duty to care for them in return. I introduced this bill last Congress, hopefully we can get this over the finish line this time around."
"As a survivor, I know how hard it can be to come forward," said Rep. Nancy Mace. "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."
"Our veterans earned access to comprehensive health care in their service to our nation, and that must include examinations and referrals for survivors of military sexual trauma," said Rep. Jared Moskowitz. "Our bipartisan bill will fill a critical gap in veterans' care by expanding its availability at VA hospitals, and I urge my colleagues to take it up and do right by our veterans' service and sacrifice."
"We must ensure that veterans who have suffered through traumatic sexual violence are heard and receive the support and justice they deserve," said Rep. Anna Paulina Luna. "I am proud to back Congressman Tim Burchett's legislation to protect their well-being. 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."
The full text of the bill can be found here.
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