Bill > HB67

This bill makes several significant changes to Louisiana law regarding sex offenses involving minors. First, it expands the definition of second degree rape to include situations where an offender engages in sexual intercourse with a victim who is between 13 and 17 years old, and the offender is at least three years older than the victim, regardless of consent. The bill also extends the statute of limitations for prosecuting sex offenses involving victims under 18 to 30 years from when the victim turns 18, which provides a longer window for victims to come forward. Additionally, the bill modifies the hearsay exception rules to allow statements of sexually assaultive behavior made by individuals under 13 years old (previously 12 years old) to be admissible in court, which could help protect younger victims by allowing their initial complaints to be heard. These changes aim to strengthen legal protections for minors and provide more comprehensive tools for prosecuting sexual offenses against children by expanding definitions, extending prosecution timelines, and adapting evidentiary standards.

Justice

https://www.legis.la.gov/legis/BillInfo.aspx?s=25rs&b=HB67&sbi=y