Bill > SB590

This bill modifies Missouri state law regarding childhood sexual abuse legal actions by expanding the statute of limitations and prohibiting nondisclosure agreements in such cases. Specifically, the bill defines "childhood sexual abuse" as specific sexual offenses committed against a person under 18 years old, and allows victims to file civil lawsuits within ten years of turning 21 or within three years of discovering that their injury or illness was caused by the abuse, whichever occurs later. The bill applies retroactively to cases filed on or after August 28, 2025, meaning it could revive previously time-barred claims. Importantly, the bill also renders any nondisclosure agreements in childhood sexual abuse cases unenforceable and void, which prevents perpetrators from silencing victims through legal agreements. The legislation updates and expands the list of specific sexual offenses that qualify as childhood sexual abuse, broadening the legal definition and potential scope of civil actions for survivors.