Public Policy & Action
Laws in Your State
From the legal definition of rape to the statute of limitation for a particular sex crime, where you live makes a difference. Here's a guide to the laws in your state.

RAINN Action Center
RAINN Needs Your Voice
Congress needs to hear your voice. #ActWithRAINN to help us protect survivors and prevent sexual violence.
Learn More About the Issues
RAINN's Action Center is full of information on top issues and ways to contact Congress directly. Learn more about legislation that can improve the criminal justice system, support survivors, and bring perpetrators to justice. Follow us on Twitter at @rainnaction to be the first to know about our state policy work. #ActWithRAINN
RAINN Working With Lawmakers
DNA and Sexual Violence
When law enforcement investigates a case of sexual violence, DNA evidence can sometimes make or break the outcome.
Learn MoreStatutes of Limitations
When a crime is committed, there is a window of time that a state has to charge the perpetrator. The laws that determine this time frame are called criminal statutes of limitations, and they vary by state, situation, and crime. How does your state stack up?
Learn MoreSexual Assault Laws and Court Decisions
Key federal laws help to prevent sexual violence, allocate critical funds, and establish protections for survivors.
Learn MoreIssues We Work On
RAINN’s Public Policy team works with lawmakers to ensure survivors have access to critical services after sexual assault and to improve the way perpetrators are prosecuted. Learn more about the bills we currently support and other issues.
Learn MoreRAINN Statement On Kavanaugh Vote
While we are disappointed in the outcome, we are glad that America got the opportunity to hear Dr. Blasey Ford’s testimony. Our nation has learned a lot in the last two weeks about the millions of sexual assault survivors who have stayed silent for years. It has also learned about the long-term damage that sexual violence often does to victims, and the effects on families, on workplaces, and on communities.
Learn MoreRAINN Statement on Cosby Sentence
The women who shared their stories in the Cosby trial and sentencing showed admirable courage and strength. We are grateful that the court understood the seriousness of Cosby’s crime and sentenced him to prison. Let’s hope that the legacy of this case is that victims feel empowered to come forward, knowing that it can truly make a difference in bringing perpetrators to justice.
Learn MoreRAINN Statement About Allegations Against Kavanaugh
Sexual assault is a crime, and every allegation should be thoroughly investigated. The allegations made by Dr. Christine Blasey Ford are very serious. The Senate Judiciary Committee has a responsibility to hear from both Judge Kavanaugh and Dr. Ford before voting on his nomination.
Learn More