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New plan would allow extended protective orders for Wash. sexual assault victims

Screenshot from the Wash. bill -- related to sexual assault protection orders.

SEATTLE — Victims of sexual assault would have increased protection against their attackers under a new proposal approved Wednesday in the Washington State Senate.

The plan would allow longer terms for protective orders. The maximum currently is two years.

Under the new legislation, protective orders could be effective permanently.

Continuing existing protective orders would also be made easier.

"Protection orders are very effective, but obtaining them can be difficult for victims. Two-year orders are often inadequate because of the continued risk and fear of harm that still remains after the protection period expires," Sen. Steve Litzow of Mercer Island said.

The proposal passed the Senate unanimously Wednesday.

According to a release from Litzow's office, over 12,000 sexual assault victims received services in Washington in 2014.

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