Indiana lawmakers are working to reduce the backlog of hundreds of untested rape kits due to a lack of resources.

House Bill 1413 proposes $2.5 million for new equipment and additional staff to process the estimated 600 to 800 untested kits.

The bill aims to speed up investigations and deliver justice to survivors. “It’s not cheap, but for justice for our victims, it’s worth it,” said Kenneth Cotter, St. Joseph County Prosecuting Attorney.

The bill is now headed for a critical Senate vote.