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Note: This article is adapted from a longer article produced by the Capitol News Alliance, a collaboration between KUNC News, Colorado Public Radio, Rocky Mountain PBS and The Colorado Sun.
Survivors of sexual assault in Colorado are calling on state lawmakers to address the growing backlog of untested rape kits, which currently averages a processing time of over 500 days. This delay has left more than 1,400 individuals awaiting DNA results, hindering investigations and justice.
The backlog has been exacerbated by staffing shortages and the discovery of misconduct by a former forensic scientist, leading to the review of over 10,000 cases. In response, the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has launched a public dashboard to track progress and plans to outsource 1,000 cases to private labs. The goal is to reduce the turnaround time to 90 days by the end of 2026.
Advocacy group EndTheBacklog.org has been instrumental in highlighting the issue, noting that the backlog represents a systemic failure to prioritize sexual assault cases. The organization supports legislative efforts to ensure timely testing and accountability.
In addition to the rape kit backlog, Colorado lawmakers are advancing House Bill 1291, aimed at increasing safety measures for rideshare services like Uber and Lyft. The bill, prompted by reports of sexual assaults by rideshare drivers, would require companies to conduct driver background checks every six months, prohibit hiring individuals with certain criminal histories, and mandate audio and video recording during rides. Representative Jenny Willford, a sponsor of the bill, shared her personal experience of being assaulted by a Lyft driver, emphasizing the need for stricter regulations.
These legislative efforts reflect a broader commitment to addressing systemic issues affecting survivors of sexual assault in Colorado. By tackling both the rape kit backlog and rideshare safety concerns, the state aims to create a more responsive and protective environment for survivors.
