The state Assembly passed legislation Wednesday that would require anyone who observes a violent crime to report it to authorities. The Witness Responsibility Act now moves to the state Senate.

Current law requires that witnesses report a rape, murder or other violent crime against a victim under the age of 14; the new measure removes the age limit.

State Assemblyman Pedro Nava, D-Santa Barbara, proposed the law after the gang rape of a 16-year-old Richmond High School girl outside the homecoming dance Oct. 24. Police say the victim was sexually assaulted, robbed and beaten while others watched, laughed and took pictures. Seven people are charged in the assault.