Victims of sexual assault will not face underage alcohol consumption penalties when they report the crime. Governor Scott Walker says the new law encourages victims to seek medical attention and help from law enforcement – without fear of retribution.
“This provides one more tool to help victims and those who are supporting victims of sexuall assault and other sex-related crimes, to have no barriers to reporting.” Legislation signed by Walker on Thursday at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point had solid backing from the UW system, and passed the with bipartisan support at the Capitol.
State Senator Jerry Petrowski (R-Marathon) said the new law prohibits an underage person who has been sexually assaulted, or assists a friend who has been assaulted, from being cited for underage drinking or facing disciplinary action by the University of Wisconsin System. Petrowski said many victims didn’t report the crimes for fear of being cited for drinking.
WSAU