U.S. Military To Revamp Response To Sexual Assault

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Yesterday, December 26th, President Obama signed a defense bill that puts greater restrictions on the power commanders have to determine responses to sexual assault.  
According to the Washington Post:

 Commanders will no longer be permitted to overturn jury convictions for sexual assault. The law also requires a civilian review when commanders decline to prosecute, requires dishonorable discharge or dismissal for those convicted, eliminate the statute of limitations for court[sic]-martial in rape and sexual assault cases and criminalizes retaliation against victims who report an assault.

 In another effort to combat sexual violence, President Obama ordered military leaders to look at their efforts to prevent and respond to sexual assault in a year-long review.  

 We are pleased to hear this news, but cautious about the process for civilian reviews and the burden of proof required to convict.  Another proposal that victims of sexual assault would be entitled to their own attorney does not seem to be included in this version of the bill.  We also hope that these measures will not only combat sexual assault, but also sexual harassment.  There have been reports of a culture of misogyny within military ranks, and we hope that these measures will make it safer for ALL soldiers, sailors, airmen and women, Marines, and Coastguard man and women.  


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