Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CONTACT: JILL VUJOVICH-LAABS October 17, 2014 651-248-2300

JVL@danseverson.com          

Response to Simon for Secretary of State Rape Kit Allegations “I am repulsed and horrified that Steve Simon’s campaign would stoop to a new low in Minnesota politics by insinuating that I would sponsor any legislation that would re-victimize those who have experienced sexual assault. I demand a full public apology from both him and DFL communications director Ellen Perrault.” Here are the facts that the public needs to know about me and this bill:

1. This bill was brought to me by a commissioner in my district while I was a state representative. 2. I moved it forward with the understanding that the bill would propose sharing the cost of all expenses

associated with sexual assault between the counties of the victim and the perpetrator. 3. I specifically killed the bill before it EVER got a hearing because of the language specific to victims having

to pay for anything. 4. Furthermore, I supported chemical castration for sex offenders and child molesters in the public safety

bill. “I am the father of a beautiful adult daughter who in her spare time volunteers to counsel rape victims, I have a beautiful granddaughter, and campaign team which is 95% female and have served with some incredible women in the United States Navy. Additionally I co-developed a non-profit called Saving Hope International, a global non-profit which works to stop sex trafficking. This is a desperate tactic by a campaign in trouble. Minnesotans find these stunts repulsive and for good reason. I am appalled at this foolishness. If elected I will use all of my knowledge to improve the Safe-at-Home program, increase its accessibility and protect the addresses and identities of those who utilize it. “

###