Iowa Senator Joni Ernst hopes the attention received by the sentencing of former Michigan State and Olympic sports doctor Larry Nassar for abusing female will help push through legislation that’s passed the Senate on the issue. “Our bill requires amateur athletics governing bodies to immediately report sexual abuse allegations to local or federal law enforcement, or a child welfare agency,” Ernst says. The Republican from Red Oak says the legislation also makes it safer and easier for victims to report abuse. “It ensures organizations develop and enforce policies to prevent these horrendous crimes from happening in the first place,” according to Ernst.

Ernst called the abuse of female gymnasts “horrifying and disgusting.” She co-sponsored the bill with both Republicans and Democrats and wants to see it become law. “I am urging the House to act quickly on this legislation so that we can better protect the young athletes of our nation. With the winter Olympics right around the corner, we must insure that athletes are protected,” Ernst says.

Ernst talked about the bill during her weekly conference call with reporters.

(Radio Iowa)