After recent action by the legislature, several bills I worked on are headed to the Governor for his signature. One of these bills, Senate Bill (SB) 413, was signed by the Governor on the morning of March 6 and is now 2025 Wisconsin Act 90. This week, I want to highlight this bill, which strengthens protections for victims of sexual assault.

Act 90 extends the statute of limitations for second-degree felony sexual assault in Wisconsin from ten years to twenty years. Second-degree sexual assault is sexual contact accompanied by force or the threat of force. Right now, Wisconsin has one of the shortest windows in the country to prosecute these crimes. Advances in forensic technology, such as DNA evidence and cell phone data, have given investigators more tools to identify perpetrators years after a crime was committed. At the same time, many survivors delay reporting their assault for years due to trauma, fear of retaliation, or dependence on the perpetrator. Increasing the statute of limitations gives victims more time to come forward and seek the justice they deserve. It also brings Wisconsin in line with our neighbors, all of whom have a longer statute of limitations for these crimes, with the exception of Iowa.

The legislation also provides immunity from misdemeanor drug or alcohol violations for victims or witnesses who report a sexual assault. Studies show that more than 80% of sexual assaults involve the use of drugs or alcohol. This removes a barrier that discourages many victims from seeking help from the police.

The final provision makes it easier for survivors to escape dangerous living situations. Under current law, a survivor of sexual assault can only break a lease early if they can prove an imminent threat of physical violence, a difficult standard to reach. My bill allows victims to terminate their lease if they have a restraining order or have filed a criminal complaint alleging sexual assault or stalking against themselves or their child.

I worked closely with law enforcement organizations and groups dedicated to preventing sexual assault and domestic violence to craft this legislation and I am proud of the bipartisan support it received. While I wish crimes like this did not exist in our state, as long as they do, we must advance legislation to help victims of sexual assault hold their abusers accountable for their crimes.

If you need assistance with any state-related matters, please call my team at the State Capitol – 608-266-0703 – or email me – Sen.Marklein@legis.wisconsin.gov. My team is ready and willing to help navigate your state government, clear obstacles, and receive your input.