State Senator Michele Reynolds announced on May 20 that she is sponsoring Senate Resolution 359 to support allowing Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs) to provide remote testimony in Ohio courtrooms when appropriate and available.
The proposed resolution aims to make it easier for SANEs, who play a key role in supporting survivors of sexual assault, to participate in legal proceedings without the need for physical presence. This change could help reduce burdens on these nurses and improve access to survivor care during legal processes.
“Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners provide compassionate, trauma-informed care to survivors during their most vulnerable moments,” said Michele Reynolds. “This resolution supports secure remote testimony to reduce burdens on these highly trained nurses, strengthen access to survivor care, and ensure SANEs can continue serving both patients and the justice system effectively.”
Reynolds was joined at the press conference by Stefan Turkheimer, Vice President of Public Policy at RAINN; Michele Sorrell, Manager of Forensic Nursing at the Cleveland Clinic; Melisa Minier, Manager of Forensic Nursing at Mount Carmel Health Systems; and Emily Gemar, Public Policy Director at the Ohio Alliance to End Sexual Violence.
Senate Resolution 359 has not yet been referred to a Senate Committee for further consideration. The future steps will depend on committee review and legislative action.
