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Bill > S368


MA S368

Relative to supporting survivors of child sexual abuse


summary

Introduced
03/29/2021
In Committee
12/23/2021
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
12/31/2022

Introduced Session

192nd General Court

Bill Summary

For legislation to prevent the sexual abuse of children and youth. Education.

AI Summary

This bill aims to support survivors of child sexual abuse. The key provisions are: 1. It amends the Massachusetts General Laws to allow for civil actions for sexual abuse of a minor. This expands the types of civil claims that can be brought under existing law. 2. It extends the statute of limitations for claims related to child sexual abuse, allowing survivors to file claims within 3 years of when they first make the connection between the abuse and the harm they suffered, as supported by a mental health professional's report. This recognizes that many survivors may not immediately connect the abuse to the harm, consistent with typical responses. 3. It exempts claims by or on behalf of persons alleging they were sexually abused as a child from certain restrictions on claims against the government, providing more avenues for these survivors to seek recourse. Overall, the bill aims to make it easier for survivors of child sexual abuse to pursue civil claims and seek justice, acknowledging the unique challenges they face in processing and reporting the abuse.

Committee Categories

Education, Justice

Sponsors (5)

Last Action

Accompanied a study order, see S2976 (on 07/05/2022)

bill text


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