Bill > S404

This bill aims to support survivors of child sexual abuse by making several important legal changes. First, it expands the definition of civil actions to include sexual abuse of a minor, which will help survivors seek legal recourse. The bill also modifies provisions related to filing claims and determining the statute of limitations for sexual abuse cases. Specifically, it allows survivors to file claims based on a mental health professional's assessment that they did not immediately recognize the connection between the abuse and their subsequent harm, which is consistent with typical trauma responses. The bill introduces a new time frame for filing claims that starts when the survivor first understands the link between the abuse and their suffering, rather than strictly adhering to a fixed time limit from the original incident. This approach acknowledges the complex psychological impact of childhood sexual abuse and provides more flexibility for survivors to seek justice, potentially years after the abuse occurred. By making these changes, the bill seeks to remove barriers that have historically prevented survivors from pursuing legal action and receiving compensation for their trauma.

Education

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S404