Bill > HB456

This bill establishes new legal provisions for civil actions related to child nonsexual abuse and neglect in Maryland, significantly extending the statute of limitations for victims. Specifically, victims can now file a lawsuit until either 20 years after reaching age 18 or 3 years after the defendant is convicted of a related crime, whichever is later. The bill defines "child" as an individual under 18 years old and provides detailed definitions of "neglect" and "nonsexual abuse" that include physical and mental harm to a child by parents, household members, caretakers, supervisors, or persons in positions of authority. The legislation caps noneconomic damages at $1,500,000 for a single claimant against a single defendant in cases that would have been previously barred by time limitations. Importantly, the bill applies both prospectively and retroactively, meaning it will revive previously time-barred claims and take effect on October 1, 2025. The bill also includes a severability clause, ensuring that if any part of the law is found invalid, the rest of the legislation can still be enforced.

Justice

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0456?ys=2025RS