The Broken Arrow Republican says Oklahoma needs stronger protections for sexual assault survivors, including guarantees of victim autonomy, expanded oversight and greater coordination among law enforcement, medical providers and advocacy organizations.
State Rep. Ross Ford, R-Broken Arrow, says he plans to introduce legislation during the 2027 legislative session creating a Victims of Sexual Assault Bill of Rights aimed at strengthening protections for survivors and increasing oversight of Oklahoma’s response to sexual assault cases.
Ford announced the proposal this week, saying the measure would establish statutory protections intended to ensure victims receive trauma-informed care and are not further harmed by institutions responsible for investigating cases or providing support services.
“The rights of victims must be protected through a victim-centered, trauma-informed approach that prioritizes dignity, autonomy, justice and healing,” Ford said.
A 25-year law enforcement veteran, Ford said the legislation would guarantee victims retain control over decisions involving medical care, advocacy services and participation in criminal investigations.
The proposal also would require greater coordination among law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, medical providers and victim advocacy organizations involved in sexual assault investigations.
Among its provisions, Ford said the legislation would require state-funded advocacy organizations to provide services to any certified sexual assault nurse examiner conducting examinations, regardless of institutional affiliation. The measure also would require law enforcement agencies to cooperate with certified examiners, take custody of sexual assault evidence kits and preserve evidence according to state standards.
Ford said the bill would further protect the confidentiality of materials collected during sexual assault examinations by exempting them from public disclosure.
The Broken Arrow Republican said Oklahoma should take a closer look at how sexual assault cases involving both adults and children are investigated and handled statewide.
According to Ford, the Tulsa County District Attorney’s Office receives roughly 50 child sexual assault cases each week.
“These alarming numbers demand a comprehensive review of how Oklahoma responds to and investigates sexual assault crimes,” Ford said. “For too long, the state has relied heavily upon nonprofit organizations to provide essential victim services with limited oversight or accountability.”
Ford was first elected to House District 76 in a 2017 special election. He is seeking reelection this year and is scheduled to face Democrat Michael Tinsley in the Nov. 3 general election.
The legislation has not yet been formally filed. Lawmakers may begin filing bills for the 2027 legislative session on Nov. 15. The First Session of the 61st Oklahoma Legislature is scheduled to convene Feb. 1, 2027.
