Lee Introduces Kayleigh’s Law to Protect Victims of Sexual Crimes from Contact by Abusers

WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced Kayleigh's Law to protect victims from any further unwanted contact with their abuser. Named for survivor Kayleigh Kozak who bravely testified against her soccer coach for sexually abusing her as a sixth grader, the bill will require courts to issue permanent no-contact orders at the request of victims who have suffered violence or sexual abuse.

"Victims of sexual crimes often have to face their abusers in court over and over again, and even hear from these monsters outside of the courtroom. They fear for their safety, and they deserve better protection," said Senator Mike Lee. "Kayleigh Kozak bravely faced her abusive soccer coach multiple times in court after he assaulted her in the sixth grade. Survivors like Kayleigh have suffered vile abuse and should never be dissuaded from coming forward by fear of retaliation or further contact from their attacker. I'm proud to sponsor Kayleigh's Law to require courts to issue permanent no-contact orders on convicted defendants at victims' request."

"The harm caused by sexual assault is not temporary. It is lifelong," said Kayleigh Kozak. "The protections for those who have been sexually violated should be lifelong, too."

Kayleigh's Law is endorsed by public safety authority Right On Crime:

"Kayleigh's Law reflects a simple truth: justice should not come with an expiration date for victims. When the system allows dangerous offenders back into a victim's life, it fails its most basic responsibility. Courts should have the authority to stand with survivors for the long term, and Kayleigh's Law makes that possible." - Brett Tolman, Executive Director, Right On Crime

Kayleigh's Law

• Applies to defendants convicted of a crime of violence or a felony offense that includes as an element a sexual act or sexual conduct.
• Requires the court-on motion of the Government (with the consent of a victim) or a victim-to issue a permanent order during sentencing to prohibit the convicted defendant from contacting a victim directly or indirectly, through written, oral, electronic, digital, or physical means.