Governor Brown Considers 2 New Rape Bills Designed To Make Sweeping Change In California Sexual Assault Laws
LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — Two bills passed by the California Legislature and awaiting Gov. Jerry Brown's signature could have a serious impact on future sexual assault cases in the state.
"They could help rape and sexual assault victims," said attorney Gloria Allred.
The well-known lawyer is speaking out as the two bills that could protect victims of rape and or sexual assault go in front of the governor early next week.
"We're moving forward on behalf of victims so that the law will not only protect defendants, but now we will be more protective of victims," Allred said.
One of the bills, SB 813, is something Allred has been working to get passed. It would eliminate the statute of limitations.
The statute is the reason why some of her clients -- who accuse Bill Cosby of rape -- can't go after him criminally in a court of law because too much time has passed. Eliminating the statute of limitations would change that.
"It's an empowerment for the victim to know that she can still go to law enforcement," said Allred.
The other bill was inspired by the Brock Turner case.
Turner is the Stanford swimmer who was sentenced to just six months in jail for sexually assaulting a woman who was unconscious. The bill would simply close what supporters say is a loophole in sexual assault sentencing and give mandatory harsher punishments.
"We want to have the scales of justice balanced so that at least victims can have as many rights as defendants have," Allred says.
Both bills will now be going to the governor's office for signing.
Early next Tuesday, Allred said she will be in Sacramento encouraging the governor to sign SB 813.
