The fallout continues to come after T.I.‘s controversial “hymen check” comments — and now, new legislation in New York state proposes to ban virginity checks altogether!
Two Democrats, Senator Roxanne Persaud (D-Brooklyn) and Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages (D-Nassau), introduced legislation in the New York State Assembly this week that seeks to ban doctors from performing a variety of “virginity examinations” like the ones described by the rapper in those controversial comments. In addition, the exams are noted as being abusive, as well as widely unscientific, and would be a felony in the state if they are passed.
Related: T.I.’s Daughter Publicly Reacts To The Whole Controversy
In a memo attached to the proposed bill, the lawmakers argue (below):
“These examinations are not only a violation of women’s and girls’ human rights, but in cases of rape, can cause additional pain and mimic the original act of sexual violence, leading to re-experience, re-traumatization and re-victimization.”
Wow! Very strong words — but it’s clear how powerful and important this is, all set off after the Got Your Back rapper’s really regrettable comments.
Assemblywoman Solages was particularly fired up about the practice, and she specifically mentioned T.I. and his words in her motivation for proposing the legislation, as she spoke further to the New York Post about the issue:
“It’s misogynistic, it’s appalling. I was horrified to see this was happening. If a celebrity can impose his power to ensure his 18-year-old daughter gets checked, imagine what can be done in households across New York state?”
No kidding…
Related: T.I.’s Wife Literally Eyerolls Her Way All Through Hymen-Gate
The penalties would be pretty serious, as they’re outlined now by the bill itself, written (below):
“Section 1 of the bill adds two new sections … to the public health law to forbid the performance of a hymen exam on women as a means to ascertain whether a woman is a virgin … The bill stipulates that if someone disregards these rules, it will be considered an act of professional misconduct.”
In addition to professional misconduct, licensed medical professionals who violate the bill would face charges of sexual abuse in the first degree, which is a Class D felony in the state of New York. Clearly, these lawmakers are serious about the potential threat here to women and young girls. Good for them!
What do you guys think about this bill, Perezcious readers?! Surely T.I. has learned his lesson here with how divisive and controversial his comments were in the first place… we hope? Sound OFF with all of your opinions in the comments (below)…
[Image via Red Table Talk/Facebook]
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