Bill > S08320

This bill amends the Court of Claims Act to remove specific pleading requirements for claims involving sexual offenses against children and adults. The bill creates two new exceptions to the existing rule that requires claims to provide detailed specifics: first, for claims involving sexual offenses, incest, or sexual performances committed against children (involving victims under 18), and second, for claims involving sexual offenses or incest committed against adults (18 and older). These exceptions mean that individuals bringing claims related to sexual offenses will no longer need to provide the same level of detailed information about their claim, such as the exact time, place, and itemized damages. The bill is retroactive, applying to current claims, pending claims, and even previously dismissed claims that are still eligible for appeal, which could help survivors of sexual offenses who may have struggled to provide precise details about traumatic events. The bill references specific sections of the New York Penal Law that define sexual offenses, incest, and sexual performances involving children, effectively broadening access to legal recourse for survivors of sexual abuse.

Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S8320