Every year in the United States, more than 288,000 people suffer from rape and sexual assault. But many rape kits, which often contain key pieces of evidence, are never even tested. Sometimes, it’s because the law doesn’t require a test unless criminal charges have been filed—leaving many victims without the closure or protection they need. Today, Congress votes to change that.

Enter the Survivors’ Bill of Rights Act of 2016. Introduced by Rep. Mimi Walters (R-CA) and Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-CA) of the House Judiciary Committee, this legislation will provide stronger protections and greater access to legal remedies for survivors of sexual assault. It will ensure that survivors not only have access to evidence-collection kits when involved in federal criminal cases, but also that they be notified before their kit is destroyed—and can request that it be preserved, if necessary. 

Consider Amanda Nguyen—a 24-year-old rape survivor who, every six months, has to “fight to keep her rape kit in the system” because she “doesn’t currently have the time and resources to participate in a months-possibly years-long rape trial.” She’s fighting for survivors, herself included, who want their kits—and their rights—protected. Now, Congress is standing by her side.

With today’s vote, the House will take a bipartisan step toward preserving the basic rights of sexual assault survivors. Because they have endured enough trauma already—and their right to justice is unconditional.