By: Khushi Prakash
On February 18, 2026 the proposal to protect children from female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) was formally placed on the Judiciary Committee agenda, and the very next day, Raised Bill No. 259 was introduced. This bill is a needed step forward for survivor protections in Connecticut.
What the bill does
- Establishes FGM/C as a Crime in Connecticut: The bill has classified conducting FGM/C on a minor as a felony while stating consent or claims of cultural significance are not valid defences.
- Strengthens Court Procedures: The bill expands already existing child protection safeguards for the courtroom to FGM/C cases. It allows testimony to be given via closed-circuit television if necessary and allows a trusted adult to be present near the child.
- Protects Child Witness Competency: Ensures that child survivors of FGM/c are not automatically marked incompetent to testify due to age.
- Creates Civil Remedies for Survivors: The bill allows survivors to bring civil action again those who preform FGM/C.
Next Steps
The next step is for a public hearing to be scheduled so the Judiciary Committee can formally hear testimony on the bill. Following the hearing, the Committee must vote favorably in order for the bill to advance to the full House and Senate for debate and passage.
We urge you to support the banning of FGM/C in Connecticut by signing the petition calling for legislative action.
If you are a Connecticut resident, contact your state legislatures and urge them to prioritize and advance this bill.
You can also learn more about the Connecticut Coalition to End FGM/C and how to get involved at: https://endfgmcinct.com
