Bill would provide amnesty for sexual assault victims

MADISON — Wisconsin legislators are proposing a bill that would ensure sexual assault victims and reporters can't be cited or disciplined for underage drinking.

Rep. Joan Ballweg, R-Markesan, introduced the bill Monday at a news conference, saying the goal is to provide underage victims who have been drinking peace of mind when deciding whether to come forward to report their assault.

Attorney General Brad Schimel says Wisconsin colleges and police departments typically don't discipline or cite sexual assault victims or reporters for underage drinking but officials say the bill would solidify that practice in state law and hopefully encourage more victims and bystanders to report.

Spokeswomen for both Assembly Speaker Robin Vos and Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald didn't immediately respond to emails inquiring about the bill's prospects.