Bill > A4684

This bill removes certain legal protections that previously shielded public entities and employees from lawsuits related to sexual offenses. Specifically, the bill eliminates immunity from civil liability for public entities and employees in cases involving sexual assault, sexual crimes, and sexual abuse against a person, when such offenses result from willful, wanton, or grossly negligent acts. For cases involving sexual offenses against minors under 18, public entities can now be held liable for negligent hiring, supervision, or retention of employees. The bill also extends the statute of limitations, allowing victims to file lawsuits within a two-year window, even if the standard time limit for legal action has expired. Additionally, the bill removes previous monetary caps on damages for pain and suffering in these specific types of sexual offense cases, enabling victims to potentially recover more comprehensive compensation. The legislation aims to provide greater legal recourse and accountability for public entities in situations involving sexual offenses, particularly those affecting minors, by eliminating previous legal barriers that may have prevented victims from seeking justice.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/A4684