Policy

Child sexual abuse victims win legislative victories

At least 35 states considered legislation related to the issue.
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D) signs a bill on April 11, 2023, in Annapolis, Md. (AP Photo/Brian Witte)

Victims of childhood sexual abuse have won the right to sue their alleged abusers in civil court under a wave of new legislation that supporters say provides an avenue for justice for those who have suffered for years, or even decades.

At least 35 states have considered or are considering legislation related to the victims of childhood sexual abuse. In 16 states, legislators have introduced bills to eliminate criminal statutes of limitations for the perpetrators of abuse. In 23 states, lawmakers have introduced bills to eliminate or extend the civil statute of limitations.

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