Patrick to sign sexual assault bill

BOSTON (AP) - Gov. Deval Patrick is expected to sign into law a bill that strengthens the protections for sexual assault victims.

Jane Doe Inc., an organization focused on ending domestic violence and sexual assault, says the law creates an enforceable civil restraining order for victims of sexual assault and stalking and closes a gap in protection.

The state House of Representatives passed the bill on Monday 153-0. It passed the Senate last November 37-0.

Patrick is scheduled to sign the bill into law on Tuesday afternoon in Nurses Hall in the Statehouse.

Jane Doe Inc. says 38 other states already have similar laws that help save lives.