Bill > SB747

This bill modifies Missouri's legal provisions regarding civil actions for childhood sexual abuse by extending the statute of limitations for such cases. Specifically, the bill expands the definition of childhood sexual abuse to include not just direct acts by a defendant, but also acts caused by the defendant's tortious conduct. The bill increases the time frame for filing a civil lawsuit from ten to twenty years after the victim turns 21, or within three years of discovering that an injury or illness was caused by childhood sexual abuse, whichever occurs later. The bill also updates the specific criminal code sections that define what constitutes childhood sexual abuse, adding more detailed legal references to sexual offenses against minors. Additionally, the bill applies these new provisions to any action commenced on or after August 28, 2025, which means that some previously time-barred cases might now be eligible for legal action. The changes aim to provide survivors of childhood sexual abuse more opportunities to seek legal recourse and compensation for their experiences, acknowledging that many victims may not immediately recognize or be able to report the harm they suffered.

Justice

https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=6223178