OLYMPIA – Today, the House advanced House Bill 1484, expanding aggravating circumstances for sentencing to include rape-related pregnancies, regardless of the victim’s age.
Under current law, courts may impose exceptional sentences for certain aggravating factors, but primarily for victims under 18. Introduced by Rep. Osman Salahuddin (D-Redmond), HB 1484 ensures all survivors receive the legal recognition and justice they deserve, and that perpetrators are held accountable for the consequences of their actions.
“Sexual assault is one of the most heinous crimes,” said Rep. Salahuddin. “For too long, our justice system has failed to acknowledge the lifelong trauma of rape-related pregnancies. This bill is about justice and recognition.”
Survivors endure immense physical and psychological harm. Current laws do not fully address the severity of this crime in sentencing. Salahuddin added, “no survivor should ever feel invisible in the eyes of the law.”
HB 1484 strengthens the legal system’s commitment to survivors and reinforces that Washington will not tolerate sexual violence. The bill now moves to the Senate. House consideration of HB 1484 can be viewed by clicking here or on the image below.
