Ending the Rape Kit Backlog

Based on public reports, we know that at least 100,000 rape kits have sat, untested, in evidence rooms, warehouses, and the like. These rape kits often contain DNA evidence collected through a sexual assault forensic exam, a medical process where evidence is collected from a victim’s body and clothes. Ask Congress to prioritize funding that helps to eliminate the rape kit backlog, ultimately holding more rapists accountable and giving all victims an equal chance for justice.

Making a call to your Representative? Consider these talking points:

• My name is [YOUR NAME], and I am a constituent.
• Did you know that across the country, more than 100,000 rape kits—evidence from sexual violence crimes—have gone untested, leaving criminals free and victims without answers and healing?
• I am calling to ask for the [REP./SENATOR]’s support in the Fiscal Year 2019 budget for programs that will help us to get to the root of the rape kit backlog, ensure that more rapists are held accountable, and help survivors get answers they deserve.
• I would appreciate and will be on the look out for the [REP./SENATOR]’s support for continued level or increased funding for the Justice Department’s work under the Debbie Smith Act and Sexual Assault Kit Initiative in the Fiscal Year 2019 budget.
• Thank you for your time and consideration.