Bill > S1188

This bill proposes to extend the statute of limitations for civil actions related to serious international human rights abuses, allowing victims more time to seek legal recourse. Specifically, the bill creates a 10-year window for victims to file lawsuits involving serious offenses such as torture, genocide, war crimes, human trafficking, and crimes against humanity. For child victims of human trafficking, the 10-year period begins when they turn 18. The bill defines specific legal terms like "crimes against humanity," which includes acts like murder, rape, sexual slavery, and persecution committed as part of a widespread attack against civilians. The legislation also ensures that previously time-barred cases cannot be dismissed solely due to expired statutes of limitations and allows prevailing plaintiffs to potentially recover attorneys' fees. Importantly, the bill applies retroactively, meaning it can be applied to past cases that might have previously been blocked by shorter limitation periods. This approach aims to provide broader access to justice for victims of severe human rights violations by giving them more time to seek legal remedies and potential compensation.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1188