WA HB2493

Expands rights currently granted to sexual assault survivors to all survivors of sexual violence, including female genital mutilation (FGM), affecting an estimated 25,000 women and girls in Washington state

Allows courts to appoint a representative to question victims on behalf of pro se defendants in sexual assault and domestic violence cases, preventing direct confrontation while preserving defendants' examination rights

Permits minors age 13 and older to consent to forensic examinations for evidence collection in domestic violence cases involving nonfatal strangulation

Extends the SAFE (Sexual Assault Forensic Examination) advisory group from July 1, 2026 to July 1, 2028, and expands its duties to include developing trauma-informed, culturally sensitive policies to prevent and address FGM and other sexual violence

Adds a statutory definition of "female genital mutilation" and increases survivor representation on the SAFE advisory group from two to three members