Re: AB 2843 (Petrie-Norris) – REQUEST FOR SIGNATURE

I write to respectfully request your signature on AB 2843 (Petrie-Norris), an essential bill that would eliminate cost sharing for rape survivors who seek emergency medical care following an assault. Only 20% of rape survivors seek care following their assault, and weighing the costs of care is one of the reasons. An emergency room co-pay can run $350 to $600 or higher and can be a deciding factor for a rape survivor who may need medical attention, and/or who may wish to seek forensic testing that could lead to the conviction of their rapist. Rape kits and exams are free; however, other costs associated with an emergency room visit are not.     Eliminating cost sharing for rape survivors can improve access to medical care, improve the rate of forensic evidence collection, increase reporting of this devastating crime, and ultimately provide justice for more survivors. Conviction rates for rape are shockingly low, with 2.8% of reported rapes resulting in conviction, and 2.5% resulting in jail time for the offender. Providing all survivors access to emergency and follow up care without cost-sharing will ensure they receive needed care, and it also ensures the collection of evidence that is necessary if a survivor wishes to pursue justice.   While 90% of rape survivors are women, rape impacts all genders. AB 2843 will benefit not only women, overall, but also those who are the most marginalized due to gender and additional factors, such as members of the transgender community, in which more than 50% experience intimate partner violence.    Another issue for many rape survivors is the concern about receiving information and invoices associated with an emergency room visit at their residence if they do seek care. An invoice for cost sharing can be triggering for the rape survivor but may also place them in danger if the survivor lives with their rapist.   This measure reflects California values:   -All rape and sexual assault survivors should have access to medical care -- not just those who can afford the cost-sharing expenses. -All  rape and sexual assault survivors should have access to the gathering of forensic evidence – not just those who can afford the cost-sharing expenses. -All rape and sexual assault survivors should have the ability to pursue justice, which is more likely achieved through gathering forensic evidence. -All rape and sexual assault survivors should be afforded privacy protection, which includes ensuring invoices for co-pays and notices of provided services are not delivered to their home in the event they live with their perpetrator For these reasons, I strongly support AB 2843, and I urge your signature on this very important measure.