Kentucky bill aiming to improve access to sexual assault nurse examiners heads to governor’s desk

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WKYT) - The Kentucky General Assembly passed a bill that seeks to increase access to sexual assault nurse examiners (SANEs), as well as a statewide coordinator.

According to the most recent version of the bill, House Bill 134, the Kentucky Board of Nursing would be required to employ a health professional as a statewide SANE coordinator and outline the responsibilities of the position.

The board would also have to work with others to develop a statewide strategic plan to ensure SANE coverage for all hospitals in the commonwealth under HB 134.

HB 134 would also require the board to create a state registry of SANEs that can be accessed from the board’s website by registered SANEs and Kentucky hospitals. The registry would have to be operational by Dec. 1, 2026.

The bill now heads to Gov. Beshear’s desk to be signed.