Survivors of sexual assault in New Jersey will soon be able to track their evidence kits through the criminal justice system under a new law signed by Gov. Phil Murphy on January 23, 2025, Dana DiFilippo of EasternProgress.com reported.
The legislation addresses the longstanding issues of transparency and backlogs associated with untested so-called “rape kits”, providing survivors with a clearer view of the investigative process.
The law mandates the creation of an online tracking system by the state attorney general, enabling sexual assault victims, law enforcement, and health care and laboratory workers to monitor the status of rape kits from collection to results. This tracking system, expected to launch by late summer, will help ensure accountability at every stage of the process. Gov. Murphy commented on the importance of recognizing and supporting survivors, stating, “Survivors of sexual assault who show strength and resilience in coming forward deserve recognition and support.”
This measure builds on efforts already underway. The Attorney General’s Office began developing the tracking system in 2023 after securing $2 million in federal funding. Once implemented, the system will place New Jersey alongside most other states that have already adopted similar technology to enhance transparency and reduce backlogs.
New Jersey’s backlog of untested rape kits has been a significant concern. A 2019 state audit revealed that while forensic laboratories reported no backlog, law enforcement agencies had over 2,800 untested kits. Factors such as the absence of suspects or perceptions about the victim’s credibility contributed to these delays. Further reports showed over 1,200 untested kits between 2018 and 2020.
In response, Attorney General Matt Platkin introduced reforms in 2023 to address the issue, including extending the storage time for untested kits from five to 20 years and limiting circumstances where evidence could go untested. These changes complement the new law by ensuring that untested rape kits are less likely to be overlooked.
Sen. Renee Burgess (D-Essex), a sponsor of the bill, described the legislation as a “critical step forward” in restoring trust in the criminal justice system. “By establishing a rape kit tracking system, we are providing survivors with the transparency they deserve and holding the system accountable for its role in securing justice,” she said.
The importance of addressing rape kit backlogs is the mission of End the Backlog, which has been a leading advocate for rape kit reform nationwide. End the Backlog works tirelessly to bring awareness to this issue, encourage legislative action, and ensure rape kits are tested promptly to support survivors and hold perpetrators accountable.
With the introduction of this tracking system, New Jersey joins the nationwide effort to enhance support for sexual assault survivors, reduce barriers to justice, and increase transparency across the board.
