Bill > H7200

This bill, effective July 1, 2026, expands the definition of sexual abuse for legal purposes related to child sexual abuse and exploitation, and modifies the timelines for bringing such legal actions. Specifically, it broadens the scope of what constitutes sexual abuse to include claims of negligent supervision, failure to report, or concealment of abuse, and clarifies that these claims can be brought against any "party," not just a "perpetrator defendant." Importantly, it revives certain claims that may have been time-barred under previous laws, allowing them to be filed by June 30, 2028, and establishes a general timeframe of 35 years from the act or 7 years from discovery for bringing these actions, with the clock tolled for minors until they turn 18. The bill also includes provisions for the revival of claims, interest on damages for actions not against the state, and limitations on damages for claims against the state.