Sexual Assault Needs Assessment in Texas: Documenting Existing Conditions and Striving Toward Preferred Outcomes

A comprehensive needs assessment of sexual assault services for adult victims in Texas, based on interviews and surveys of victims, the professionals that assist them, and statewide leaders. The report estimates that the State of Texas spends approximately $42.8 million on services for victims of adult sexual assault every year, excluding unreimbursed medical costs and the cost of criminal investigations and prosecutions. Findings suggest gaps in services to victims and a need for additional support for service providers. The report includes recommendations to improve outcomes for victims.

The research project was led by the Institute on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault at the University of Texas at Austin, assisted by staff of the Bureau of Business Research.