Washington’s New “Stealthing” Law On Monday, Washington will become the third state in the U.S. to criminalize “stealthing,” the non-consensual removal or tampering of sexually protective devices during intercourse. Expanded Scope Washington’s law is more comprehensive than those in California and Maine. It includes dental dams, spermicides, cervical caps, and other devices used for pregnancy and disease prevention. Serious Consequences Stealthing is now considered a form of sexual assault and treated as such. Perpetrators could face a $5,000 penalty per violation. Path to Justice Victims of stealthing can file civil lawsuits against perpetrators. Courts can also consider previous findings of liability and award legal fees to victims. Other Legislation Additional bills passed during the 2024 session will also take effect on Monday, including: Crime Victim’s Rights * Expands rights to include survivors and witnesses * Allows minors 13+ to consent to forensic exams without a parent * Removes statute of limitations for offenses by first responders Cash Assistance Programs * Extends time limits for parents with children under 2 Opioid Epidemic in Tribal Communities * Creates a fund for prevention and treatment services on tribal landsWA to Criminalize ‘Stealthing’ Western Australia will become the third Australian state to criminalize the non-consensual removal of a condom during sex, known as “stealthing.” The offense will carry a maximum penalty of five years in prison. Other Laws Taking Effect In addition to the stealthing law, several other new laws will take effect on Monday in Western Australia: * Coercive control: A new offense that criminalizes controlling or coercive behavior in intimate relationships. * Expanded reporting requirements for child abuse: Mandatory reporting requirements will be extended to certain professionals such as school counselors, religious ministers, and youth workers. * Increased penalties for animal cruelty: The maximum penalty for animal cruelty will be raised to five years in prison. * New protections for victims of domestic violence: Police will have increased powers to protect victims of domestic violence, including issuing temporary restraining orders and confiscating firearms. Support for New Laws The new laws have been welcomed by advocates for victims of sexual assault and domestic violence. “These laws will provide much-needed protection for victims and send a clear message that these behaviors are unacceptable,” said a spokesperson for the Sexual Assault Resource Centre of WA. Implementation and Enforcement The new laws will be implemented by the Western Australian Police Force and the Department of Justice. Law enforcement officials will receive training on the new offenses and how to respond to reports of stealthing or coercive control.