*For all press release inquiries, please reach out to Theresa Meyer (Theresa.Meyer@mail.house.gov)

Washington, D.C.— This week, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) announced that his Abby Honold Act was signed into law. The legislation will provide federal funding for law enforcement to receive training in evidence-based, trauma-informed care.

“Sexual assault is a life-shattering event, the trauma of which can be compounded by improper care,” said Emmer. “The Abby Honold Act will equip first responders with valuable healing tools and give a voice to survivors.”

The Abby Honold Act was co-led by Representative Annie Kuster (NH-02) in the House. Companion legislation in the Senate was led by Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and John Cornyn (R-TX).

“As we work to support survivors like Abby, we need to provide law enforcement with the training and skills they need to best engage with and help victims,” said Klobuchar. “Now that the Abby Honold Act is signed into law, we can help ensure that law enforcement uses the most effective techniques to respond to these critical investigations.”

Background:

The Abby Honold Act is named for a former student of the University of Minnesota and sexual assault survivor who has performed inspiring work to increase awareness of trauma-informed care techniques. 

The bill was first introduced in the 115th Congress and subsequently reintroduced by Congressman Emmer in the 116th and 117th Congresses.

You can read more about the bill here.

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