Idaho Passes Law to Criminalize Prison Staff Sexual Abuse
Bill awaits approval from Governor Brad Little.
Current laws restrict abuse definitions to genital contact, failing to address groping.
37 prison workers accused of sexual misconduct in the last decade, most unpunished.
Bill classifies willful physical contact for sexual gratification as a felony.
Aligns state regulations with federal Prison Rape Elimination Act standards.
Rep. Marco Erickson and Sen. Tammy Nichols sponsored the measure.
Department of Correction supports bill, calling it 'gives us more teeth.'
3 weeks ago