"New York Governor Redefines Rape Law to Include Nonconsensual Sexual Contact"
Governor Kathy Hochul signed the 'Rape is Rape Act' into law, redefining the way New York penal law defines the crime of rape to include nonconsensual sexual contact, with provisions set to take effect on Sept. 1, 2024. The legislation was inspired by the story of Lydia Cuomo, a survivor whose assailant was convicted of lesser charges due to the state's outdated rape statutes. The act aims to provide clarity for prosecution and support survivors, prioritizing justice for victims of sexual assault.