Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

Minnesota House Bill HF4019

Introduced
2/19/24  
Refer
2/19/24  
Refer
3/11/24  

Caption

Victim-identifying supporting documentation submitted by medical service provider to sexual assault exam payment program ensured to be classified private data, consistent definition of crime victim provided in statutes, and voluntary donation or gift excluded as collateral source for crime victim reimbursement.

Impact

The proposed bill would significantly impact state laws regarding the treatment of crime victims, particularly in the context of sexual assault. By ensuring that victim-identifying information is deemed private, the legislation seeks to enhance the comfort and security of victims when seeking medical assistance and related reimbursements. This could potentially lead to increased participation in the assault exam payment program, as victims may feel safer knowing their identities and sensitive information are safeguarded.

Summary

House File 4019 focuses on enhancing the privacy and support for victims of sexual assault by establishing guidelines about the documentation submitted by medical providers to the sexual assault exam payment program. The bill aims to classify victim-identifying information as private data, ensuring that it is protected from disclosure. Additionally, it proposes a consistent definition of crime victims in the applicable statutes, ultimately striving to provide a more supportive legal framework for those affected by sexual violence.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HF4019 appears to be supportive, highlighting a consensus on the necessity of protecting victims' privacy and improving their access to resources. Advocates for sexual assault survivors have expressed positive feedback about the bill, seeing it as a step forward in addressing the complexities of victim support and ensuring that victims’ rights are respected. However, some concerns may emerge regarding the implementation of these privacy measures and potential bureaucratic challenges.

Contention

While HF4019 has garnered overall support, notable contention may arise regarding how the classification of private data will be implemented and monitored. There may be debates on the adequacy of the definitions set forth for crime victims and the impact these changes could have on reimbursement procedures. Stakeholders might also question how these protections will mesh with existing laws and how local entities will adapt to these new requirements.

Companion Bills

MN SF3999

Similar To Guarantee victim-identifying supporting documentation submitted by medical service provider to sexual assault exam payment program is classified private data

Previously Filed As

MN SF3999

Guarantee victim-identifying supporting documentation submitted by medical service provider to sexual assault exam payment program is classified private data

MN HF3614

Public safety; policy and technical changes made to provisions including crime victim policy, criminal justice reform, public safety policy, predatory offenders, and corrections policy; crimes established; penalties provided; data classified; and reports required.

MN HB2546

Sexual assault victims; creating the Sexual Assault Victims' Right to Information Act; declaring rights of sexual assault victims; effective date.

MN HB863

MS Crime Victims' Bill of Rights; revise to expand for sexual assault victims.

MN SF1889

Minnesota Crime Victims Reimbursement Act

MN SB761

Relating to the offense of sexual assault and to the rights of crime victims, including the enforcement of certain rights of sexual assault victims; authorizing a civil penalty.

MN AB1312

Sexual assault victims: rights.

MN HB744

Provides relative to the rights of sexual assault victims

MN HB1953

Relating to rights of crime victims, including the enforcement of certain rights of sexual assault victims; authorizing a civil penalty.

MN SB224

The rights of sexual assault crime victims.

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